Lincoln, NB – Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) confirmed on Monday that it is investigating a large-scale EBT card skimming operation in Lincoln after dozens of SNAP recipients reported stolen benefits in a single day. Officials warn that the thefts may affect more residents as investigations continue.
Skimming Devices Found
Cari Crosby, DHHS program integrity manager, said the agency was notified Monday of potential skimming activity linked to point-of-sale machines at local stores. Investigators located two skimming devices that same day and are working to verify additional locations where devices may have been placed.
“In 2025, we had only about 300 reports statewide,” Crosby said. “We’ve received **dozens today alone. On this large of a scale, we’ve not seen this in quite some time.”
The Lincoln Police Department confirmed that it had not received reports of these thefts before Jan. 1, highlighting the sudden spike in incidents.
How EBT Skimming Works
According to DHHS, criminals typically place skimming devices over store card readers to capture card numbers and PINs. The stolen information is then used to make online purchases or create cloned cards to drain SNAP benefits.
Crosby emphasized that the thefts are not the result of a DHHS or vendor data breach.
“We don’t have access to card numbers or PINs, and neither does the vendor,” she said. “That information is protected and kept only by the client.”
Reported Losses and Victim Guidance
The Lincoln Police Department reported at least 14 EBT theft cases in Lincoln since Jan. 1, with total losses exceeding $8,600. The average victim lost approximately $615 in benefits.
Victims are advised to contact DHHS by phone or email to dispute fraudulent charges and request refunds. Crosby is also urging all EBT cardholders to monitor their transaction history closely and report any suspicious activity immediately to law enforcement and DHHS.
Cooperation Between Agencies
DHHS is coordinating with the Lincoln Police Department and the Nebraska State Patrol to identify and remove skimmer devices.
Anyone with information about potential skimming locations is encouraged to contact Lincoln Police non-emergency dispatch at 402-441-6000 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.
Officials are reminding residents that early reporting of suspicious activity is critical to preventing further theft and ensuring stolen benefits can be restored quickly.
Have you or someone you know been affected by EBT card theft in Lincoln? What steps do you take to monitor your card activity and prevent fraud? Share your experiences and advice in the comments below.
