SCDSS implementing fraud-prevention measures to protect SNAP recipients

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– The South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS) is implementing enhanced fraud-prevention measures to further safeguard Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients and protect their benefits, says the dept.

FILE – SNAP EBT information sign is displayed at a gas station in Riverwoods, Ill., Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh, file)

DSS will begin blocking all out-of-state and online Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) transactions effective Tuesday, April 28, 2026.

While these blocks are active, all South Carolina EBT cards will automatically be placed in a “Block High Risk Transactions” status, says SCDSS.

Cards in this status will not be able to complete purchases outside of South Carolina or online.

All in-state purchases will continue to process normally.

South Carolina EBT cardholders will continue to have flexibility and control over their EBT accounts, according to DSS.

If a cardholder needs to make an out-of-state or online purchase, they must first unlock their card using the EBT Cardholder Portal (ConnectEBT.com), the ConnectEBT Mobile
App, or by calling the EBT Customer Service IVR at 1-800-554-5268.

For additional information about the new EBT fraud-prevention features, please visit the SCDSS website.