I-TEAM: Skimmers across Louisiana swipe thousands in federal EBT benefits

BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB) - The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) confirms to the WAFB I-TEAM that several skimming incidents across Louisiana have resulted in the recent theft of approximately $125,000 in federal benefits from EBT cards. The agency has been working with multiple law enforcement agencies and state and federal officials to stop the problem and prevent any future theft.

According to a source familiar with the situation, internal emails have gone out within the agency to try and stop the bleeding. According to that same source, DCFS has been aware of the problem for weeks.

A spokesperson with DCFS released the following statement, detailing the steps they’ve taken to get a handle on the problem.

Anyone who has been affected by the recent thefts is encouraged to contact DCFS directly through email at dcfs.fraud@la.gov. Potential EBT fraud can also be reported by calling 1-888-LAHELPU (1-888-524-3578).

DCFS has compiled a list of helpful tips to help consumers protect themselves from potential theft on their EBT cards. That information can be found here.

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