CONCORD, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) State officials are cautioning New Hampshire residents who receive cash assistance through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards after reports of a phone scam that has already led to thousands of dollars in losses in the region.

Attorney General John M. Formella and Health and Human Services Commissioner Lori A. Weaver said Friday that scammers are posing as government representatives and contacting EBT cash benefit recipients by phone, claiming there is a problem with their account. Victims are then instructed to provide their EBT card number and personal identification number, information that is later used to drain funds through ATM withdrawals.

The New Hampshire Department of Justice Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau became aware of the scam after similar cases were reported in Maine. In those incidents, victims who followed the caller’s instructions reported unauthorized withdrawals totaling about $15,000. Investigators have since confirmed that some of the fraudulent ATM transactions tied to the scam occurred in Manchester.

Formella said the calls are designed to sound urgent and legitimate, increasing the likelihood that recipients will comply. He emphasized that no state or federal agency will ever ask for an EBT card number or PIN over the phone.

Commissioner Weaver echoed that warning, noting that scammers frequently rely on fear and time pressure to obtain sensitive information. She stressed that the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services does not request full card numbers or PINs by phone, text message or email.

According to information shared with state officials, the scam typically begins with an automated call stating that there is an issue with a recipient’s cash benefits. The caller then prompts the individual to enter their EBT card number and PIN, allowing scammers to access the account and withdraw funds almost immediately.

DHHS officials said they are working with law enforcement agencies, including local police departments, to investigate the reported ATM activity and track the individuals responsible.

EBT cardholders are urged to protect their information by never sharing their card number or PIN and by hanging up immediately if they receive a call requesting that information. Recipients can change their PIN or check their account balance by calling 1-999-997-9777 or visiting the EBT Edge website.

Anyone who believes they may have been targeted or victimized by the scam is encouraged to contact the New Hampshire Department of Justice Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau at 1-888-468-4454.