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EBT Card Skimming and Cloning

Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card cloning is the process by which thieves use an electronic device, referred to as a skimmer, to copy the card information and transfer the data to an unauthorized card through which they can steal the food assistance benefits. In FY2023 the Benefit Trafficking Unit uncovered a nationwide organized criminal scheme through which thieves stole $4 million in food assistance benefits from numerous states to illegally use in Michigan. Ten individuals were arrested, and their criminal cases are pending in court.