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California Enhances EBT Security, Theft Drops Dramatically

1/22/2026

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Summary

Story summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom announced improvements in Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card security amid criticisms from the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump.
The state reported thefts fell from over $20 million two years ago to $4 million last fall, attributing the decline to anti-fraud technology, including chipped EBT cards.
Local welfare fraud investigators say theft figures are undercounted because many victims do not report thefts.

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Story summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom announced improvements in Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card security amid criticisms from the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump.
The state reported thefts fell from over $20 million two years ago to $4 million last fall, attributing the decline to anti-fraud technology, including chipped EBT cards.
Local welfare fraud investigators say theft figures are undercounted because many victims do not report thefts.