NEWS RELEASE
DATE REPORTED: Wednesday, August 21, 2024
LOCATION OCCURRED: Township of Kalamazoo
INCIDENT SUMMARY: Over the past two weeks, the Township of Kalamazoo Police Department has responded to numerous fraud complaints from Township of Kalamazoo residents. Residents are reporting fraud involving their EBT/SNAP card numbers being compromised while still in possession of their card. This type of crime usually involves illegal skimming devices placed on point of service (POS) terminals. TKPD Detectives contacted the State of Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and were provided the following information for victims:
- Contact your local police department to report the fraud
- Report the fraudulent activity online at: https://mdhhs-public-prod.michigan.gov/fraud/default.aspx
- Deactivate/cancel your card utilizing the above website
MDHHS advises the following to prevent further fraudulent activity:
Download the application EBT Edge mobile app for Apple or Android
From the app, users are able to:
- Review their transaction history
- Block out-of-state purchases
- Block internet purchases
- Lock their card to deny all activity and any future transactions
MDHHS will never send emails or text messages regarding “locked” cards or ask for your PIN.
EBT customer service can be reached by phone number (888) 678-8914.
These complaints remain under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call Silent Observer at (269) 343-2100 or the Township of Kalamazoo Police Department at (269) 381-0391.
ASSISTING AGENCIES: MDHHS
FOR NEWS RELEASE BEGINNING: DATE: August 23, 2024 TIME: 9:00 a.m.
AUTHOR: Detective Sergeant Georgeann Ergang