The Texas Health and Human Services Commission has recently received an increase in reports of scams targeting Texans who use Lone Star Cards, including recipients of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits.
According to a news release, skimming and phishing scams are typically used to steal people’s Lone Star Card numbers and personal identification numbers. Skimming occurs when criminals illegally install devices on card readers to capture and record information. Phishing happens when a text message or email is sent in an attempt to trick people into clicking a link or calling a number and sharing their card information.
The HHSC will never contact Lone Star Card users by phone, text or email to ask for their card number and PIN, the release said.
Texans should frequently check their benefit balances and change their PINs to keep their accounts secure, according to the HHSC. Cardholders can monitor their transactions, freeze their cards and more through the Your Texas Benefits app.
