PSA: EBT Skimmer Scam Returning To Crown Heights

Following a period of relative scam-free living, an EBT skimmer scam which rocked Crown Heights earlier this year has begin to creep its way back in. Crown Heightsers should take action to protect themselves.

CrownHeights.info reported in early February on a large number of EBT thefts being reported in the Crown Heights Jewish community pointing to a skimmer which was likely planted in a local store. A thorough check of local EBT accepting terminals in Crown Heights had not found any skimming devices at the time.

Multiple residents that had been victims of the EBT theft had reported that they had found a large number of transactions at a small store in Pennsylvania which cleared out their accounts. Some saw hundreds of dollars stolen, others thousands.

The report by CrownHeights.info quickly gained attention and a Sate Assemblyman stepped up in ALbany to fight for the community. Ultimately a new tool was launched by New York State allowing EBT Card holders to lock their cards when not in use, blocking the thieves and leading to a near complete stop in these thefts.

Now, months later, these thefts have again begun to show up on local Crown Heights residents accounts.

Residents are asked to please check their balances and file police reports for any stolen funds. Thefts should also be reported online to the state or by calling the number on the back of the card. You can also file for reimbursement of stolen funds by clicking HERE.

Previous Articles:

Exclusive: EBT Thefts In The Jewish Community, The Investigation

Crown Heights Targeted In EBT Skimming Attack, State Assemblyman Steps Up

PSA: Crown Heights EBT Holders, Change Your PIN Immediately

New Tool to Protect Low-Income New Yorkers From Losing EBT Benefits to Scams or Skimming