The applications advertise that they can be used to retrieve Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card balances, but instead they are designed to capture the recipient’s card number.
“We do not use phones apps for our EBT program, so do not respond to them because they are capturing information,” said Radonna Vinger, Montezuma County social services investigator.
So far, three fraudulent smart phone applications have been identified: Fresh EBT Food Stamp Balance, Balance 4 SNAP and EBT, and EBT Balance.
Vinger said EBT cardholders can check their balance every time they make a purchase or by contacting social services.
“The state wants to get the word out to not use those apps to retrieve your balance or account information,” she said.
Scammers are attempting to gain required information through the application, then report a lost card and steal benefits, officials said.
No reports of the application have turned up locally, and it is unknown if accounts have been accessed to make fraudulent purchases or withdraw benefits. Notices will be sent out to EBT card holders about avoiding the fraudulent applications.
The Colorado Department of Human Services has communicated this information to its county partners and will provide updates to counties as more information becomes available. Colorado does not have a smart phone application for recipients to check their card balances.
If you used or have been targeted by one of these applications, please contact the Department of Human Services’ Food Assistance Program at 1-800-546-5298, or contact the Montezuma County social services at 970-565-3769.