Over $100,000 in Maine EBT Money Stolen in Sophisticated Card Cloning Scam

According to an article on the WGME website, over $100,000 in EBT/SNAP money has been stolen in a sophisticated scam.

Federal officials say EBT card cloning is a growing problem nationwide, allowing thieves to steal benefits by copying card information without ever taking the physical card.

Investigators say they recently identified a suspect in one of Maine’s latest cases. Jeronimo Mavungo Raymond of Auburn is accused of using cloned EBT cards to withdraw cash and make purchases in southern Maine.

According to investigators, the case began at a Bank of America ATM in South Portland, where surveillance video allegedly showed Raymond withdrawing $560 using a cloned card. Just six minutes later, investigators say Raymond was captured on camera at a nearby TD Bank holding multiple cards believed to be cloned EBT cards while withdrawing another $680.

Police say Raymond later used one of the cloned cards to make a $6 purchase at New York Fried Chicken in Portland.

The investigation eventually led authorities to the Big Apple convenience store, where surveillance footage again showed Raymond wearing the same clothing. Investigators were then able to identify his vehicle and trace its registration back to him.

Officials say they confirmed the cards were cloned because both victims still had their original EBT cards and had never shared their information.

Raymond is scheduled to appear in Maine District Court on July 6 for a preliminary hearing.

State officials are reminding EBT recipients that the Department of Health and Human Services will never call or text asking for card numbers or PINs.

Authorities say the investigation into the theft continues and they are asking that anyone who has any information reach out to police.