A nationwide effort targets skimming scams and protects families who rely on EBT and everyday card use
From gas stations in Little Havana to ATMs across downtown Miami, everyday transactions can sometimes carry hidden risks. In 2025, those risks were significantly reduced thanks to a nationwide crackdown led by the U.S. Secret Service, which helped prevent hundreds of millions of dollars in fraud — including right here in South Florida.
A nationwide operation with local impact
Working alongside federal, state, and local law enforcement, the Secret Service conducted 22 EBT fraud and ATM skimming outreach operations across major U.S. cities in 2025, including Miami, Tampa, Orlando, and other Florida hubs. During these efforts, law enforcement teams visited more than 9,000 businesses, inspected nearly 60,000 ATMs, gas pumps, and point-of-sale terminals, and removed 411 illegal skimming devices.
The result: an estimated $428 million in potential fraud losses prevented. For Miami-Dade residents — especially families relying on government assistance — this effort helped safeguard funds meant for food and basic necessities.
Why EBT skimming hits close to home
Skimming crimes increasingly target Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, which criminals exploit by installing illegal devices that capture card data and PIN numbers. These thefts often occur around monthly benefit deposit dates, making low-income families especially vulnerable.
“EBT fraud targets the nation’s most vulnerable communities,” officials noted, emphasizing why outreach and education are just as important as enforcement. As part of the operations, businesses received educational materials to help identify suspicious devices — a critical step in prevention, especially in tourist-heavy and high-traffic areas like Miami events districts.
Consumers can also protect themselves by inspecting card readers for tampering, using tap-to-pay or chip-enabled cards, covering PIN entries, and choosing well-lit, indoor ATMs when possible.
As skimming schemes grow more sophisticated, community awareness becomes a powerful line of defense. For more local stories that impact Miami’s neighborhoods, subscribe to the Calle Ocho News newsletter for timely updates. And for businesses or agencies looking to reach a trusted, engaged audience across Miami-Dade, contact Pressnet Corp. to explore advertising opportunities.
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