Electronic theft targeting Oregon EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) cards is on the rise. Criminals are using methods like skimming devices to steal your card number and personal identification number (PIN). Once they have your information, they can drain your food and cash benefits. But there are steps you can take to help keep your benefits secure:

• Inspect card readers carefully: Before swiping your card at an ATM or other card reader, check for anything unusual. Skimming devices are often placed on top of existing card readers. If you see anything that looks out of place or tampered with, avoid using it and let the business know.

• Keep your PIN secret: Never share your PIN or write it on your card. Cover the keypad whenever entering your PIN in a public setting. Thieves may use small cameras to capture your PIN entry.

• Change your PIN regularly: Get into the habit of updating your PIN often. This can help protect your account if someone does gain access to your card number. Here are the ways you can ​change your PIN number:​
  • Call 888-997-4447;
  • Log into the ebtEDGE website;
  • Take your EBT card to the closest ODHS benefits office​.

• Monitor your EBT account activity: Make it a habit to check your account regularly for any unusual charges. If you see a charge you didn’t make, report it immediately, cancel your card and request a replacement. Here are the ways you can ​get a new card:​
  • Call the EBT Replacement Line at 1-855-328-6715;
  • Go to an ODHS benefits office​.
    
    Make sure to only use trusted resources to view and manage your EBT card. Only use the official ebtEDGE website and mobile app. ODHS does not endorse any other EBT management apps or websites.

• Freeze your card between uses: When you’re not using your EBT card, consider freezing it as an extra layer of protection. Simply unfreeze it when you’re ready to make a purchase. To do this, visit the ebtEDGE website or use the mobile app and look for "Freeze Card" under "Account Services."

• Block out-of-state and online purchases: You have the option to block transactions made outside of Oregon and online purchases to safeguard your card from unauthorized use. To do this, visit the ebtEDGE website or use the mobile app and look for “Protect My Account" under “Account Services." You can remove the blocks later.

• Don’t respond to suspicious texts: If you receive a text message asking for your EBT card number or PIN, ignore it. ODHS will never ask for your information this way.

• Avoid social media scams: Only trust posts and messages about your benefits from official ODHS accounts. ODHS will never ask for your benefits case number, PIN or other card information on social media.

If you’ve been a victim of electronic theft

If your benefits have been stolen through skimming, phishing, or another form of electronic theft, you may be eligible for benefit replacement.

• Right away - Cancel your card to protect your benefits:
  
  • During business hours, call 855-328-6715 (Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) to cancel your card and order a new one. You will get a replacement card in the mail within five business days.
  • After hours, call 888-997-4447 (open 24 hours) to cancel your card. Then during business hours, call the replacement card line at 855-328-6715 to order a new card.
    
    
• Within 30 days - Contact us to replace your benefits:
  
  • In person: Visit a local ODHS office
  • By phone: Call 800-699-9075
  • Online: Fill out this form and email it to oregon.benefits@odhsoha.oregon.gov

By staying vigilant and following these simple steps, you can help protect your food and cash benefits from theft. Remember, ODHS is here to support you, so reach out if you have any questions or need assistance.