The SNAP program is one of the programs that helps the most in our country, the famous food stamps have made it possible for millions of families in need to be able to eat with dignity thanks to this program, but like everything that goes well, there are always bad souls who seek to harm families.
Crimes like skimming or phishing have emptied thousands of accounts without the victims being able to do anything! In Connecticut alone more than 6 million dollars were stolen in six months… Now, finally, a solution arrives that can make a difference for thousands of families because at last, you will be able to block your EBT card when you are not using it to protect it.
A new tool
Connecticut and Pennsylvania seek to stop those who take advantage to empty the accounts of SNAP beneficiaries, and now with applications like ConnectEBT you will be able to activate and deactivate the card when you are not going to use it (just like with your debit card) and you can even limit purchases outside the state to protect yourself. This way, if someone steals your wallet, they will not be able to do anything because it will be blocked.
Families against fraud
The problem is that those who suffer this type of fraud do not receive compensation or anything similar, so many families have to wait until the next month (and request a new card) to once again have access to an aid that allows them to eat.
That translates into immediate food insecurity. The case of April Pongonis, who lost all her September benefits in Connecticut, is just an example of what happens every month to thousands of people, and it is not right that families suffer like this because of the selfishness of some scoundrels.
How the block works
Very simple, you finish a purchase, you block the card, and no one can use it until you activate it again. In Pennsylvania, in addition, you can choose between a total block or restrict use outside the state. There is also the auto-block option, which activates itself after 30, 60 or 90 minutes without use.
Our recommendations:
The block is important, but there are other recommendations you have to keep in mind. For example, change the PIN at least once a month, do not use easy combinations, always check the card readers before paying and, if possible, keep the card blocked during the night. And never share your pin number!!!
What do the states say?
In Pennsylvania, the Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Office of Inspector General (OSIG) have pushed this feature together. DHS Secretary Val Arkoosh stated that it is unacceptable for someone to lose their benefits due to fraud.
How to activate it
Download the ConnectEBT app from Apple Store or Google Play, log in and go to the option Lock/Unlock Card. From there you can activate the block, limit purchases outside the state and set up the auto-block. The same application also allows you to change the PIN and review transactions in real time, all on the same screen.
Security for millions of families
The blocking of EBT cards is not going to completely eliminate fraud in this matter, but it does at least offer a defense for the most vulnerable. There are more than 40 million people who depend on SNAP, so every measure that helps them keep their benefits safe will be well received.
EBT went down in Pennsylvania, customers began abandoning their carts
Just look at these carts, very few working American families could afford anything close to this during a grocery trip pic.twitter.com/YZySBwXKPa
— Wall Street Apes (@WallStreetApes) August 17, 2025