Text message scam targets CalWORKs and CalFresh customers  

The California Department of Social Services wants customers receiving CalWORKs and CalFresh benefits via an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card to be on the first line of defense against recent scams for electronic theft.

Fake text messages that look like official text notifications are being sent to customers asking them to contact a fake customer service center where they collect your information to steal your benefits. If you are currently receiving benefits for public assistance programs such as CalFresh, and CalWORKs, use caution when providing someone with your personally identifiable information (PII).

You can protect your personal information in the following ways:

1. Never give your EBT card number and/or personal identification number (PIN) out,
2. Do not give out any personal identifiable information, such as your:

• Social Security Number
• Date of birth
• Banking information
• Username
• Password by text

Personally identifiable information about your case will never be requested by text message. 

If you would like more information about your benefits, call the California EBT Customer Service helpline at (877) 328-9677 or contact your local Transitional Assistance Department.

If you think you may be a victim of a scam, please contact the San Bernardino County Transitional Assistance Department at (877) 410-8829.