Anoka County Sheriff’s Office Issues Urgent SNAP Scam Alert Amid Federal Shutdown Concerns

ANOKA, MN — The Anoka County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about a circulating text message scam targeting users of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. The alert comes amid ongoing public concern over the potential impact of a federal government shutdown on benefit distribution.

The fraudulent message urges recipients to claim a “Food Debit Emergency Relief Card” and promises an unrealistic $1,000 benefit. The text reads, in part:

“Food Debit Emergency Relief
Card # 12345678 Exp 12/8/24
$1000
[Your County] approves $1000 emergency food relief for October 2025.
All MN residents qualify for $1000 grocery relief – Claim by October 27, 2025.”

Authorities emphasize that the message is not legitimate and is part of a sophisticated phishing attempt designed to steal personal information and Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card details.

“Residents should never click links from unknown senders,” said the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office. “This type of scam exploits current events and emergency relief narratives to pressure individuals into sharing sensitive information.”

Anoka County Human Services confirmed that it will not initiate contact with benefit recipients via unsolicited texts that include personal client information. For questions about SNAP, EBT, cash programs, or other assistance programs, residents should use the official EZ Info Line at (763) 422‑7200. This self-service line provides accurate, immediate answers directly from the county.

The warning is part of a broader effort by county, state, and national authorities to protect the public from phishing scams that capitalize on emergencies, government announcements, or other timely events. Official agencies stress that they will never ask for a PIN, password, or personal financial information via unsolicited text messages.

Residents are urged to share this information with friends and family, particularly older adults and others who rely on benefits, to prevent them from falling victim to identity theft and financial fraud.

MinneapoliMedia