Chip reader technology for SNAP is a worthy investment
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ByEric Rivera,
Assistant Inspector General for Audits, EXIM OIG
October 22, 2026 03:09 PM ET
COMMENTARY | SNAP card security should be considered as an investment in operational efficiency, dependable access to benefits and program integrity.
Many Americans rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) as a lifeline in times of need. However, the current technology used to deliver SNAP payments remains vulnerable to forms of fraud that the commercial banking sector has confronted for years. The Advanced Technology Academic Research Center (ATARC) white paper titled Demonstrating ROI in SNAP Through the EBT Card / Chip Card Use Case, shows how the SNAP program can greatly benefit from implementing chip reader technology.
Many States rely on SNAP electronic benefit transfer cards using magnetic stripes. This technology makes it easy for fraudsters to steal data (skimming) or duplicate...
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