Protecting Utah’s Vulnerable: How Thieves are Targeting SNAP Benefits and What You Can Do to Help

SALT LAKE CITY – Utah is facing a troubling issue with SNAP (food stamp) fraud, leaving many low-income residents in a tough spot. Unlike some states that have taken steps to help, Utah has not yet found a solution to this growing problem.

One of those affected is Tonie Powell. She shared her experience with KUTV of having her SNAP benefits stolen twice this year. In February and March, thieves wiped out her funds, leaving her without the support she needs to buy food. Powell, who has arthritis and cannot work, feels desperate. “Who cares about the little people? Who’s going to stand up and fight for us?” she asked.

Powell has reported the theft to the Utah Department of Workforce Services (DWS) and even contacted the police, but so far, no action has been taken. Unfortunately, she’s not alone. Approximately 800 families in Utah are being impacted by similar crimes each month, according to DWS.

Thieves typically access SNAP funds through victims’ online accounts, sometimes taking money while the victims are asleep. In Powell’s case, she learned about the theft at the grocery store when her EBT card showed a zero balance. Later, she discovered $422 had been spent at a store in Philadelphia—a place she has never visited.

DWS provided Powell with a new card after her first theft, along with advice to change her PIN. But just days later, her new benefits were also stolen. “They didn’t have my card, they didn’t have my PIN, so what happened?” she wondered, reflecting on the loss.

Nationally, SNAP fraud has become a significant issue, costing vulnerable families dearly. In the 2023-2024 fiscal year, the federal government reimbursed over $220 million to victims of fraud. However, many states have begun to offer additional support, especially after federal funding for reimbursements ended last year. For example, Massachusetts and Alabama have introduced legislation to help victims recover lost funds—Utah has not followed their lead.

Some states have also rolled out secure features for cardholders, allowing them to lock their SNAP cards through a mobile app. This option is not available to Utah residents yet, but the state is looking into it. Other areas, like California, have switched from traditional magnetic cards to chip-enabled cards to better protect against fraud.

The DWS is considering moving to chip cards, but there’s no firm timeline. Christina Davis, a spokesperson for DWS, noted that any changes would require approval from the USDA Food and Nutrition Services and coordination with the card vendor. “Unfortunately, there isn’t one magic solution,” Davis said.

With no immediate fix, residents like Powell are forced to rely on help from friends and family just to eat. She recounted receiving some groceries from a friend, but worries about being targeted again. “I don’t know what tomorrow is going to bring,” she said.

As we navigate ongoing challenges, it’s essential to address the vulnerabilities of families who rely on SNAP. More needs to be done to safeguard these crucial benefits so that people can focus on feeding their families without fear of losing support to fraud.



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SNAP fraud,Utah,Food benefits,Low-income families,Victims,EBT card,Food insecurity,Theft