The Steuben County Department of Social Services (DSS) has issued a warning to local residents about a text message scam that has already successfully targeted a number of individuals. The fake text message informs recipients that their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card has been locked and instructs them to call a specific number and provide their card number and PIN.
According to Steuben DSS Commissioner Kathryn Muller, reports of the scam began to come in on Monday, January 23rd. Every person who responded to the text message by calling the number provided their personal information, resulting in their benefits being used in other states.
“We are concerned we will continue to get calls from individuals who have responded to text messages and now find their benefits have been stolen,” said Muller. “We advise all residents that we will never text you and ask for any information regarding your PIN or EBT card number.”
Muller urged residents to be vigilant and not to reply to these texts, which are intended to maliciously steal money and deprive individuals of their benefits. She added that any residents who believe they may have fallen victim to this scam should contact their local DSS office immediately.
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