ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – The Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) is adding protections for those who receive SNAP benefits from the state.
It has rolled out a new security feature to help combat ongoing issues with fraud.
Susan Peek is a mother of three who’s on disability.
“I woke up one morning and my October benefits were not there at all,” she said. “They had not made it to my card.”
Peek is one of thousands of Georgians who have had their EBT cards compromised.
DHS officials said nationwide, cards are being skimmed or stolen by fraudulent means.
Peek said it was a hassle to get her claim approved so that a replacement card could be sent out.
“I didn’t get my food stamps for October and November until two days before Thanksgiving it took them that long,” she said.
The state has rolled out a new EBT lock card feature to help secure accounts.
SNAP recipients can log into the ConnectEBT website or download the ConnectEBT Mobile app to lock and unlock their benefit card.
State officials said the lock feature allows SNAP recipients to choose where the card is locked.
SNAP users can have access to lock the card nationwide or in certain states.
Georgia is one of 14 states who have launched the program to address the hacks.
Peek said she’s glad the state is working to address the problem but feels there needs to be a better system in place for those who fall victim to fraud.
“It’s an awful feeling to have to be apprehensive now. Are my benefits going to be there when I need them,” she said, “Because by the time it’s time for them, my groceries are getting low. It’s time to buy groceries.”
Since last fall, DHS officials said the department has issued over $3 million in replacement funds due to fraud.
For more information or help with the ConnectEBT app or website, customers can call the Conduent customer service line at (1-888) 421-3281.
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