Louisiana Food Stamp Recipients Told To Change PIN Right Now

One thing is for sure. When there's money, valuables, or power on the line, someone will figure a way to illegally gain possession of it.

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And that has happened again. You might recall several years ago when a snafu with the Louisiana EBT card system allowed a number of recipients to get much more than their real benefits should have provided.

Well, now, another glitch could actually cost some of those recipients the loss of their benefits and that would ultimately cost Louisiana taxpayers once again.

In a story from brproud.com we learn that a number of skimming devices have been discovered on card machines at various retail outlets throughout Louisiana.

Though the Department of Children and Family Services states there have been no reports, as of yet, of cardholders' benefits being stolen, the DCFS is urging all Louisiana EBT cardholders to get proactive on the issue and to change their PIN immediately.

From what we have learned local and federal authorities are investigating the matter and are in hopes of a quick resolution to the matter.

On their webpage, the DCFS states the following precautions for all cardholders:

• Change your EBT card PIN:  Visit www.LifeInCheckEBT.com or call the EBT customer service line at 1-888-997-1117 as soon as possible. Select a unique PIN that is not easily guessable, avoiding common patterns or personal information.
• Monitor your EBT card activity:  Regularly review your card transactions using the LifeInCheck EBT mobile app or by visiting the official website. Report any suspicious or unauthorized transactions immediately to the EBT customer service line.
• Be cautious with card usage:  When making purchases, be alert and examine the card terminal for any unusual devices or signs of tampering. Shield your PIN entry from view to prevent potential compromise.

REMINDER:  Neither DCFS nor Inmar (EBT card vendor) will call a cardholder requesting the cardholder's EBT card number, and we will never ask for a cardholder's PIN. If a cardholder receives any calls requesting this information, please notify DCFS with the caller's phone number. If a cardholder has provided their information, they must immediately request a new EBT card and/or change their PIN to protect their benefits.