Georgia EBT Call Center Temporarily Shut Down After Cyberattack

News Summary

A cyberattack on Georgia’s EBT call center operated by Conduent led to a temporary shutdown. The attack targeted the IVR system, disrupting access to account details for users. In response, interim security measures were implemented. Georgia’s DHS continues to investigate potential fraud trends connected to international crime rings amidst rising concerns over EBT security.

Atlanta, Georgia – Georgia’s electronic food benefits call center was temporarily shut down following a cyberattack on July 28. The attack specifically targeted Conduent, a third-party contractor responsible for operating the state’s Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) call center.

The cyberattack involved the use of “bots” that aimed at Conduent’s Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system, which is intended to allow users to access crucial account details, including benefit balances. This malicious activity disrupted normal operations and sought to improperly access user accounts, as per information from the Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS). As of now, it is unclear if any account information was successfully obtained by the attackers.

Following the attack, the call center resumed its operations on Tuesday, but some EBT account holders may have experienced temporary lockouts as a precautionary measure. To enhance security and mitigate any potential threats, Georgia DHS advised EBT cardholders to utilize the ConnectEBT app. This application enables users to lock their EBT cards between purchases and offers features for monitoring account activity and changing their PINs. It also accommodates transactions in-state, out-of-state, and online.

Conduent first noted an unusual spike in inbound calls, which signified the potential cyberattack; however, the company stopped short of officially confirming the occurrence of a cyberattack. In response to the situation, interim security measures have been implemented at the request of the DHS, and the company is currently working in collaboration with the Georgia Technology Authority to conduct a thorough review of the incident.

No specific number of accounts impacted by the cyberattack has been disclosed, and the Georgia DHS is maintaining communication with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Nutrition Service regarding the unfolding events.

Concerns over EBT fraud have been escalating in recent months, with several reports indicating potential links to international crime rings. Over the past six months, numerous cases have emerged in which families have reported that their monthly Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits have rapidly disappeared after being deposited. Alarmingly, fraudulent transactions have been noted to occur simultaneously in multiple states.

The USDA has connected rising trends in EBT fraud with organized criminal activities, resulting in significant financial losses for both the state and its residents. As Georgia investigates the impact of this recent cyberattack, the focus remains on safeguarding EBT accounts and preventing further exploitation amidst an increasing wave of fraud.

As the situation develops, Georgia’s DHS continues to work proactively to protect the welfare of its EBT cardholders and counter the potential ramifications of the cyberattack.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Atlanta News First: Cyberattack Strikes Georgia’s Food Benefits Call Center
• Fox 5 Atlanta: Cyberattack Disrupts Georgia’s EBT Call Center System
• WSB TV: Georgia SNAP System Subject to Cyberattack
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Cyberattack
• Google Search: EBT Fraud Georgia