DCFS Urges Immediate PIN Change Amid Skimming Device Discovery

BATON ROUGE, LA - The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) is urging all EBT cardholders to change their PIN immediately following the discovery of multiple skimming devices at various retail locations across the state.

Local and federal authorities have been notified and are investigating these incidents. 

As a precaution, DCFS is sending text alerts directly to EBT cardholders urging users to change their cards' Personal Identification Number (PIN) immediately. For ongoing protection, DCFS also advises cardholders to update their PIN every 30 days to help safeguard their benefits.

DCFS urges all EBT cardholders take the following actions:

• 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 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.

Additionally, Louisiana has recently implemented new security features for EBT cards, accessible via the LifeInCheck Cardholder portal (website only) or by phone. Cardholders can:

• Set spending limits
• Block out-of-state and online transactions
• Access support at lifeincheckebt.com, or by calling 1-888-997-1117 (EBT Customer Service) or 1-888-524-3578 (DCFS Customer Service).

DCFS is committed to preserving the security of benefits and is working closely with law enforcement agencies to investigate these EBT cloning incidents. We are taking all necessary measures to protect cardholders by preventing fraudulent activities. For more information on EBT card security and how cardholders can protect their benefits, please visit dcfs.la/skimming.

If you believe you are a victim of EBT skimming, please call 1-888-LA-HELPU (1-888-524-3578).

About the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services

DCFS is the state agency responsible for keeping children safe, helping individuals and families become self-sufficient and providing refuge during disasters. The Division of Family Support administers the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP (formerly known as Food Stamps), Workforce Development (SET for Success), Child Support Enforcement, Disability Determination Services, and federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds. The Child Welfare Division manages Child Protection Investigations, Family Services, Foster Care and Adoption Services. Through its Division of Emergency Preparedness and Response, DCFS supports the state's disaster response and recovery functions that involve evacuation, sheltering, emergency food assistance and human services. For more information, visit www.dcfs.la.gov