TRENTON, N.J. — Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Consumer Affairs are warning New Jersey residents to beware of scams targeting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients during the ongoing government shutdown.
Officials said scammers are posing as SNAP representatives or government agencies, contacting recipients by phone or text and requesting Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card numbers, PINs, Social Security numbers, or bank information. Some also claim to help unlock cards, verify eligibility, or secure benefits in exchange for a fee.
Authorities emphasize that these are fraudulent schemes designed to steal SNAP benefits or personal information. Government agencies never contact recipients unsolicited or ask for private information over the phone or by text. Assistance for SNAP benefits is always free.
“As the more than 800,000 New Jerseyans dependent on SNAP benefits navigate the current food assistance crisis, we are doing all that we can to protect them from bad actors seeking to access their confidential information or divert their benefits,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “We encourage all SNAP recipients to recognize potential scams and only use the information and assistance resources supported by trusted organizations, starting with https://nj211.org/njsnap.”
“While many people are looking for ways to help individuals fearful of losing the ability to put food on the table amid the government shutdown, scammers are finding ways to exploit the situation for their own financial gain,” said Attorney General Platkin. “We’re raising public awareness of these scams to help New Jersey residents avoid falling victim.”
“Scammers know that people are most vulnerable during times of fear and uncertainty,” said Elizabeth M. Harris, acting director of the Division of Consumer Affairs. “We’re urging SNAP recipients in New Jersey to be on the lookout for these scams and providing them with commonsense tips to protect themselves.”
The Division of Consumer Affairs advises residents to never share EBT card numbers, PINs, or personal information with anyone they don’t know or trust; be cautious of unsolicited calls or texts; check EBT accounts regularly for unauthorized charges; and change PINs often, at least once a month.
Suspicious activity or suspected scams should be reported to county social service agencies.
