The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) is warning the public about a recent Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) identity theft scam circulating on social media.
CDSS has identified fraudulent advertisements claiming to offer “free government smartphones” on online marketplaces, including Facebook Marketplace. Users are asked to provide personal information such as EBT card photos and full Social Security Numbers (SSN).
These scams have resulted in unauthorized Personal Identification Number (PIN) changes and transactions on affected EBT accounts.
Do NOT share personal or EBT information in response to social media postings.
Visit the CDSS EBT Card webpage at https://www.cdss.ca.gov/ebt-card for EBT theft prevention tips and additional support.
If you are a victim of an EBT scam in California, immediately call the California EBT Customer Service Helpline at 1-877-328-9677.