Scam calls and phishing attempts to steal EBT card information are happening across Maine and other states. These types of phishing efforts are not limited to EBT; they often appear as texts or calls that appear normal from US Postal Service, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, or other official-sounding sources. These scams can sound very convincing, and they’re designed to trick you into giving away your personal benefit information.
Clients also do not need to report phishing attempts to us individually unless their card was compromised. We are operating under the assumption that these messages are always happening from scammers trying to exploit individuals. Keep reading below to make sure you are educated about how to spot a scam and what to do if you are targeted.
How to Spot an EBT Scam
Scammers may contact you by phone, text, or email pretending to be from DHHS or EBT Customer Service. Here’s how to recognize a scam:
- You receive a robocall or voicemail asking you to call back and enter your EBT card number.
- The message will sound official and use phrases just like ours “Welcome to Maine EBT Customer Service.” It may also use our own audio; they are very good at deception.
- You receive a call or message asking to give your EBT card number or PIN over the phone, by text, or in an email. The only time you would need to input your EBT card number or PIN is if you call FIS EBT Customer Service at 1-800-477-7428. This is the number on the back of your EBT card.
- The message sounds urgent or threatens loss of benefits if you don’t act quickly.
REMEMBER: DHHS will never call or text you to ask for your EBT card number or PIN. Do not provide it to anyone.
What You Should Do if You Get a Suspicious Call or Message
If you think you’re being targeted by a scam:
- Do not respond to or share any information. Hang up or delete the message.
- Do not call the number provided in the message. Instead, call us directly if you’re unsure it’s really our Office calling: 1-855-797-4357 - Monday through Friday from 7:00AM to 4:00PM
- Save OFI’s phone number in your phone so you recognize it when we call.
- Fraud calls can be reported to the Federal Trade Commission: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/
What to Do if You Gave Out Your EBT Information
If you think you gave your EBT card number or PIN to a scammer, take action right away:
- Contact us: Call the Office for Family Independence call center immediately to disable your card and request a replacement. During business hours, call 1-855-797-4357 to disable your current card and request a replacement. If it’s outside of regular business hours, call FIS EBT Customer Service line at 1-800-477-7428. You can also request a replacement card using the ebtEDGE app or website.
- Watch your EBT account closely for suspicious or unauthorized purchases.
- Reports of EBT theft can be made to your local police department.
Help Us Protect Everyone
Scammers take advantage of people during everyday situations. The more informed the public is, the harder it is for them to succeed. Share this information with family and friends who use EBT, and stay alert to protect your benefits.