Security

Stolen EBT card data used for more than $100K in authorized ATM withdrawals/purchases

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July 9, 2026

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Maine families who rely on public assistance lost more than $100,000 after their EBT card information was cloned and used for unauthorized ATM withdrawals and purchases, according to a report by Yahoo!

Investigators traced surveillance footage from multiple locations, including ATMs in South Portland, a Portland restaurant and a convenience store. Video allegedly showed a man making withdrawals of $560 and $680 at separate ATMs while holding multiple cards believed to be cloned EBT cards.

Federal investigators allege that $103,860 was stolen from about 111 recipients. More than $40,000 was taken on May 1 alone. For these alleged actions, authorities arrested Jeronimo Mavungo-Raymond, 24.

Investigators said victims still had their original EBT cards and had not shared their information, indicating the cards were cloned. At least two affected households included minor children receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits.

Maine DHS said it worked with federal officials on the investigation and previously restricted out-of-state EBT transactions to reduce fraud. Officials urge recipients to use account lock features, monitor transactions, change PINs regularly and report suspicious activity immediately.