Virginia Issues Warning Over EBT Scams
State officials are alerting residents to fraudulent text messages and phone calls targeting benefit account information.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Financial Crime
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The Virginia Department of Social Services has issued a warning regarding a scam involving fraudulent text messages and phone calls aimed at EBT accounts. These communications falsely claim that cards have been declined due to suspicious activity to trick recipients into revealing sensitive data.
Why it matters
Scammers are attempting to illicitly harvest EBT card information by creating a false sense of urgency for victims. By impersonating official communication channels, these perpetrators risk compromising the financial security of vulnerable households across Virginia.
The Virginia Department of Social Services has alerted the public to these fraudulent tactics and provided the official customer service phone number, 1-866-281-2448, for verification. The department is actively monitoring the situation.
The players
Virginia Department of Social Services
This state agency is responsible for overseeing public benefit programs, including the distribution of EBT cards to residents.
The details
Fraudulent messages instruct recipients to verify their card details by replying to a text or calling a number provided by the scammers. The perpetrators use the threat of a declined card to pressure victims into providing sensitive account information.
Timeline
October 22, 2026: The Virginia Department of Social Services issued the scam warning.
Legal Context
This warning follows established procedures within the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) regulatory framework to ensure program integrity and prevent unauthorized access to federal funds. Protecting benefit distribution systems against phishing is a standard requirement for state agencies operating under these federal guidelines.
Residents should remain vigilant and avoid sharing card details through unverified text messages or phone calls. If you receive a suspicious notification, contact the official EBT customer service line at 1-866-281-2448 to verify your account status directly.
The takeaway
Never provide account numbers or PINs in response to unsolicited text messages or unexpected phone calls. Always use official government contact channels to resolve any questions regarding your benefits.
Further reading
For more information on staying safe from fraud, visit the Virginia Financial Crime section.
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Do you trust that local government agencies provide enough protection against fraudulent digital communication scams?
