Los Angeles County launches campaign to combat EBT benefit theft

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) has initiated an EBT Safety and Security Month campaign to combat benefit skimming and scamming fraud. The initiative aims to provide businesses and customers with tools to protect Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) transactions.

In Los Angeles County, EBT card skimming resulted in the theft of more than $42.7 million in benefits during 2025. To mitigate these losses, the campaign promotes a dual-layer security strategy involving retail point-of-sale (POS) protection and cardholder account controls.

Authorities recommend that customers prioritize tap-to-pay and chip transactions over magnetic stripe swiping. Additionally, cardholders are encouraged to use the ebtEDGE mobile application to freeze cards and manage PINs. Businesses are advised to monitor checkout areas and inspect payment equipment regularly for physical tampering or skimming overlays.