New Mexico SNAP households hit again by card skimmer
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — For the second time in as many months, officials say a New Mexico store was hit by a card skimmer targeting SNAP households.
Officials with the state Human Services Department said they received reports of missing benefits from SNAP customers who shopped at Jerry’s Market in Albuquerque.
The department learned employees discovered a skimmer July 5. They also determined someone placed it there June 24.
During that nearly two-week span, anyone who paid with an EBT card at that register had their card skimmed.
“It’s appalling that anyone would steal food benefits from the most vulnerable New Mexicans,” said Kari Armijo, acting cabinet secretary for the New Mexico Human Services Department. “We urge all SNAP customers to monitor their account, change their account PIN regularly and closely examine checkout card readers.”
Officials noted there is a nationwide uptick in card skimming situations, which may be targeting other stories in New Mexico. However, HSD didn’t state which stores those are.
HSD is reminding SNAP customers in Albuquerque to check their account balance. If your card was compromised, reach out to the department immediately.
The department anticipates customers will receive restored benefits no later than 10 days from when the theft was verified.
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