The Hidden Heist: How Billions Vanish from Food Aid Programs

The USDA is sounding the alarm about a significant theft problem in food assistance programs. They estimate that around $12 billion is stolen annually from SNAP benefits, but the actual figure could be even higher. Thieves are employing high-tech tactics to exploit the system.

Fraud Reporting Discrepancies

Investigators have identified a major issue with how states report fraud. At the start of 2025, states claimed $350 million was stolen in 2024. However, by August, that number dropped by $100 million due to a change in Tennessee's report. For the first three months of 2025, states reported $136 million in stolen benefits, with Georgia leading at nearly $23 million.

USDA and Secret Service Crack Down

The USDA is taking these numbers seriously. They have partnered with the Secret Service to track down skimming devices in stores nationwide. In just two days in Atlanta and Columbus, they discovered dozens of these machines. Most of these crimes are linked to international criminal groups exploiting digital vulnerabilities.

Evolving Fraud Tactics

Fraudsters continuously devise new methods to steal, including:

Cyber attacks
Brute force methods
Fake IDs

The USDA is struggling to keep pace as criminals stay ahead.

Technology as a Potential Solution

While chip technology for EBT cards has been suggested, it remains unfunded. Meanwhile, hackers targeted a SNAP call center in July, causing further disruptions.

Georgia’s Surge in Fraud Reports

Georgia has seen a dramatic increase in fraud reports. In 2024, they reported $4.4 million stolen, but in the first three months of 2025, that number soared to nearly $23 million. The state advises users to lock their cards via the ConnectEBT app when not in use.

Top States Reporting Stolen SNAP Benefits (Early 2025)

Georgia
New York
California
Alabama
Ohio
Oklahoma
Texas
Virginia
Illinois
Florida

How to Protect Yourself

Check payment terminals for tampering.
Cover your PIN when entering it.
Use mobile wallets instead of swiping your card.
Monitor your accounts and sign up for text alerts from your bank.
Beware of scammers posing as legitimate sources.