TOMS RIVER, NJ – Ocean County officials are urging residents who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to take extra precautions amid a surge in Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card fraud across New Jersey.
The warning comes as scammers increasingly target “Families First” cards through skimming devices and other deceptive tactics.
“SNAP is a vital lifeline for many Ocean County residents, especially seniors and individuals with disabilities,” said Ocean County Commissioner Robert S. Arace, liaison to the county’s Department of Consumer Affairs and Office of Senior Services. “We want to ensure that these benefits are protected and that our residents are informed about the risks and how to avoid them.”
Officials outlined several safety steps for residents to protect their benefits, including securing their EBT card and PIN, using the Lock/Unlock feature available on state-managed systems, regularly changing PINs, and monitoring balances for suspicious activity. Residents are also urged to avoid using card readers that appear loose or damaged and to stay alert for individuals falsely offering to increase or expedite benefits in exchange for card information.
To strengthen local consumer protection, the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs recently acquired two advanced skimming device detectors, designed to identify and remove fraudulent equipment found at gas pumps, ATMs, and retail checkout locations. These devices have already been deployed in targeted inspections to prevent further losses to residents and visitors.
The county’s Office of Senior Services continues to assist older adults and individuals with disabilities in applying for SNAP benefits, providing free one-on-one guidance throughout the process. “Our departments of Consumer Affairs and Senior Services are doing outstanding work to protect and support Ocean County residents,” Commissioner Arace said. “Whether it’s preventing fraud or helping someone apply for benefits, these teams are here to serve the public with dedication and care.”
Residents can apply for SNAP or verify their benefits by contacting the Ocean County Board of Social Services at 732-349-1500. Adults over 60 or those with disabilities can reach the Office of Senior Services at 732-929-2091, and suspected cases of fraud should be reported to the Department of Consumer Affairs at 732-929-2105.
Ocean County officials are warning SNAP recipients to secure their EBT cards as scams and skimming fraud rise statewide, urging vigilance and use of county resources to protect benefits.
