Warning for food stamp recipients

Just an FYI - this was a news headline from Rochester, NY:

Posted on: 08/28/2009 10:40 AM WHEC.com

There is a warning out today for food stamp clients. A statewide scam has made its way to Monroe County and food stamp recipients are told to take extra caution not to divulge their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cash account information or PIN numbers to anyone.

How the scam works: Food stamp clients are asked to call 1-877-301-7436 where an individual prompts the caller to have a credit card ready, since the transaction will cost $3.95. After being placed on hold, the caller is then asked to provide information which includes the caller's EBT debit card number and pin number. After giving the information, the caller is told that $1,000 will be added to their food stamp account and in addition to a monetary reward, some clients are being told they could also receive gift cards for retail stores or gas cards. Instead, clients receive no benefit and are at risk for their accounts to be emptied.

The County has reported its complaints and findings to the Attorney General.

For more Rochester, N.Y. news go to our website www.whec.com.