Georgia’s food stamp program call center was hit by a cyberattack last week, confirmed the Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS). This incident, targeting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), revealed issues with their interactive voice response (IVR) system, which assists Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cardholders.

In response, Conduent, the company managing the call center, implemented interim security measures and encouraged users to download a free app to lock their cards between purchases. The DHS advised EBT users to change their PINs immediately and ensure their accounts are secure.

While the Conduent call center will be unavailable over the weekend for investigation, cardholders can use the ConnectEBT website or app to check their balance and manage transactions. The app includes features to lock cards either everywhere or only outside Georgia. DHS urged vigilance to protect personal information and benefits, with uncertainty about the extent of the attack’s impact.