Pennsylvania residents receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are urged to be wary of a phishing scam attempting to steal their personal information. The scam involves unsuspecting recipients receiving emails from “[email protected],” promising “settlement payments” in exchange for personal details.
“DHS will never ask for personal information in unsolicited emails, texts, or phone calls, regarding food stamps or SNAP,” warns Dr. Val Arkoosh, Secretary of the Department of Human Services. “If someone claiming to be from DHS asks for your information, it’s a scam!”
Don’t Be the Victim of Food Stamp Fraudsters
Don’t be tempted to fall victim to identity theft, officials urge. If you receive a suspicious message about your benefits or financial information, report it immediately to the DHS fraud tip line (1-844-347-8477).
State Inspector General Lucas M. Miller emphasizes the importance of vigilance against such schemes. “OSIG is committed to protecting public trust in assistance programs, and we need your help,” he says. “Report anyone trying to steal or exploit benefits to OSIG.”
Remember, legitimate DHS communications may come in the form of text messages or phone calls from 1-833-648-1964. However, these will never contain:
- Specific details about your benefits (e.g., SNAP amount).
- Requests for personal information.
- Links to unofficial websites (DHS uses .gov or .org domains).
If you suspect you’re being scammed, report it to the Public Assistance Fraud Tipline (1-800-932-0582) or online. Stay informed and protect your sensitive information to ensure you continue receiving the vital support you deserve.
How to Report a SNAP Benefits Fraud In Pennsylvania
To report SNAP benefits fraud in Pennsylvania, individuals can contact the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS). You can also report your case contacting the Office of State Inspector General (OSIG), in the official website.
“The Office of State Inspector General is strongly committed to identifying and eliminating fraud in assistance programs, such as cash assistance, food stamps, child care, home energy assistance, and medical assistance”, the OSIG stated. “A complaint should be completed only if an individual has been issued benefits that you believe the individual was not entitled to receive. To ensure that your complaint is investigated thoroughly, please provide as much of the following information as possible”.
They will ask for information such as your full name, exact address, age, date of birth, Social Security number, Driver’s License number, and then the explanation of how the scam happened and the theft of your food stamps.
Do not forget to also provide your contact phone numbers and email, so the OSIG office can contact you to follow up on your case, and give you updates.