​​​​​​​This page contains information on how to take action against EBT card skimming and other fraudulent activity that may occur.

What is a skimmer? A skimmer is a device that is illegally installed on card readers to record a cardholders' PIN entries. These can be placed at gas pumps, grocery stores, or other vendors that use readers. Skimmers look just like the actual device but are slightly larger, may create a lip or edge around the device, and the buttons may seem thinner than normal. Through the use of a skimmer, scammers can access a user's personal funds.

How can I identify a skimmer? Before using a card reader, look for any unusual activity, including anything loose, crooked, or damaged. While SNAP EBT cards do not have a chip, you can also consider using tap-to-pay transactions for other cards, as they are more secure and less likely to be compromised.

Aside from looking for a physical skimmer, there are other ways to prevent skimming or other fraudulent activity on your EBT card:

• Change your PIN often. Changing your PIN at the end of each month before your benefits are deposited is recommended for extra security. Additionally, do not use commons PINs for your account in case another account is breached.
• Download the FIS ebtEDGE app. By installing this app to a mobile device or creating an account at ebtedge.com, you can register your EBT card and have additional security options including freezing your card between uses or blocking out-of-state transactions. You can also view your transaction history and sign up for email notifications to monitor your account's activity.
• Check your account regularly for unauthorized changes. You can view your transaction history and sign up for email notifications to monitor your account's activity through the ebtEDGE app. If you see any unusual activity, change your PIN right away and make a report.
• Beware of phishing attempts. DHHS and EBT processors will never call or text to ask for your PIN or card number, so be on the lookout for suspicious calls.

How can I report a skimmer? If you have found a skimmer in a store or believe your EBT benefits have been used fraudulently, please notify local authorities. You can also contact DHHS's Special Investigation Unit at (402) 595-3789 or DHHS.InvestigationSIU@nebraska.gov.

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