Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card fraud continues to be reported in Virginia, with law enforcement and social services agencies reporting a wave of skimming incidents that are swiping residents’ benefits.
In Patrick County, officials are investigating multiple cases of EBT fraud following the discovery of a skimming device at a local business earlier this month. According to the Patrick County Sheriff’s Office, investigators received 49 reports of EBT fraud in September and 76 more in October, all affecting local cardholders.
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The problem isn’t isolated. In October, the Christiansburg Police Department also reported a skimming device found at a business in their jurisdiction. The department noted numerous cases of fraudulent activity, most of which targeted EBT cards.
Skimming occurs when criminals install hidden devices on ATMs, point-of-sale terminals, or fuel pumps to capture card data and record PIN entries. These stolen credentials are then used to create counterfeit cards, allowing thieves to drain funds and steal accounts.
The FBI said EBT and some other types of public-benefits cards are appealing to criminals because they largely aren’t chip-enabled, making them easier targets for fraud.
Earlier this year, Lynchburg officials reported similar incidents. In March, the city confirmed that some EBT recipients had their benefits depleted immediately after funds were loaded onto their cards. The Lynchburg Department of Human Services began tracking the number of cases and the total amount stolen, but noted that the department lacked the ability to reimburse victims.
The skimming activity in Lynchburg triggered a joint investigation involving the Amherst County Sheriff’s Office, Lynchburg Police Department, and other agencies, after devices were reportedly found at some Walmart stores in the area.
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Authorities warn that skimming devices can be installed quickly and discreetly. Businesses are urged to inspect card readers regularly for signs of tampering. Consumers are also advised to remain vigilant—shielding PIN entries, avoiding suspicious-looking machines, and monitoring account activity closely.
To help protect benefits, the Virginia Department of Social Services is urging cardholders to use the ConnectEBT mobile app, which allows users to lock and unlock their cards during transactions, adding an extra layer of security.
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