Our commitment to privacy and security
How does Propel protect user data?#how-does-propel-protect-user-data
When you first connect your EBT account in our app, we only ask for the information required to connect to your state’s EBT portal. This information lets us read your EBT balance and past transactions, so we can display that data in an easy-to-read format in the app. We can’t move or spend any of your EBT benefits.
We ask for (and store) as little of your information as possible, and we do not store PINs, full EBT card numbers, or SSNs on our servers or in the app. We're careful about the data we collect and never sell it. For internal use, like improving the app, we ensure the data is anonymous so it can’t be traced back to you.
Your information is also protected by strong security measures. All data sent between our app and your state’s EBT portal is encrypted, which means the information is turned into a code that no one else can read. Our encryption technology also makes sure that your data has not been tampered with before it reaches Propel.
My benefits were stolen. Is that because I use Propel?#my-benefits-were-stolen-is-that-because-i-use-propel
No. The Propel app never saves the information needed to make a purchase, so theft is not possible through the app. Protecting Propel users from theft is a top priority. Our company is built on earning and keeping the trust of people who use our app, and we take every measure possible to keep your data safe.
In the app, you cannot spend or move your benefits, or view or change your PIN. This is because we do not store that information, and do not have access to it, meaning we can’t spend or move your benefits either.
How does EBT theft happen?#how-does-ebt-theft-happen
EBT theft happens most often when criminals use “card skimming” devices. EBT cards use a magnetic stripe to make purchases and withdrawals. When criminals install a card skimmer on a checkout machine, the device reads the stripe and steals the information needed to make a duplicate card. This crime can happen anywhere you swipe your EBT card, like ATMs or grocery stores.
Scammers also send text messages claiming your EBT card has been locked or that you’ve won a prize. These text messages, called “phishing attempts,” ask you to call or text a phone number to fix the problem or claim the prize. These texts are scams. Don’t respond if you get one.
Why do so many people who have benefits stolen find out through Propel?#why-do-so-many-people-who-have-benefits-stolen-find-out-through-propel
Because Propel is the first place millions of EBT cardholders go to check their balances, it’s also the first place they notice unusually low balances or unauthorized purchases. Hackers cannot get the information needed to steal benefits from an EBT card through Propel.
“Just recently someone was able to use almost all of my food stamps off of my EBT card while my card was in my possession and how I found out was by regularly checking my EBT balance and transaction info through the Propel app.” - Kathryn, California
Protecting you from EBT theft#protecting-you-from-ebt-theft
The Propel app offers several anti-theft security features to help you keep your EBT benefits safe. Learn more about them here.
We’re continuing to expand these features, and exploring new opportunities to protect our users from EBT theft. If you have feature suggestions or feedback, get in touch with our team. We’d love to hear how else we can make the app a safer, more secure experience.
Propel is not a government agency. If you have specific questions about your SNAP case, contact your state or county human services agency.
