EBT and Medi-Cal benefit identification card users should be on the lookout for new text and social media scams targeting their benefits. Scammers are trying to trick people into providing private information, including photos of EBT and/or BIC cards and full Social Security or PIN numbers.
Text messages and ads offering a “free government smartphone” may look legitimate, but they are not from the County of San Diego or Medi-Cal. The County will never send a text or advertise on social media requesting a reply with personal information. If someone contacts you requesting benefit information, it is a scam.
How to Protect Yourself
- Never share photos of your EBT card or Medi-Cal benefit identification card
- Never give out your PIN, card number or Social Security Number
- Hang up immediately if a caller asks for personal information
- Delete suspicious text messages and do not respond
- Do not reply to social media messages asking for benefit or personal details
If you think your benefits may have been stolen, call the County’s Access Customer Service Call Center at 1-866-262-9881 Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. or visit a local Family Resource Center.
PIN Safety Tips
- Don’t write down your PIN
- Don’t enter your PIN while others are watching
- Change your PIN frequently
- Never enter an EBT PIN on a downloaded smartphone app
For more information, visit the County’s EBT Fraud page.
