Oklahoma Reports Surge in SNAP Skimming Fraud

Oklahoma Human Services (DHS) has reported a dramatic increase in skimming fraud affecting SNAP beneficiaries, with complaints rising from under 200 per month to nearly 10,000 in October alone. The agency has discovered skimming devices at multiple locations in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Enid, and Blanchard. Law enforcement attributes these scams to an international crime ring that has targeted vulnerable locations, leading to approximately $4 million lost in benefits. DHS advises SNAP recipients to change their PINs immediately and download the ConnectEBT app to secure their accounts. Chip-enabled EBT cards are expected to be introduced next summer, which should enhance security against such thefts. Community services are feeling the strain, with food pantries reporting a 46% increase in demand due to the spike in fraud.