PATRICK COUNTY, Va. (rbs news now) — The Patrick County Sheriff’s Office has released additional information regarding a skimmer device recently found at a local establishment, following public concern and questions about the incident.

Authorities said there has been speculation about which business the device was recovered from, creating “an unnecessary dark cloud” over the establishment.

The sheriff’s office said that there is no evidence any local businesses are involved in orchestrating these crimes.

Authorities explained that skimmer fraud is part of a global crime network, and the device found locally was not part of any organized effort within the county.

The department shared images in an October 10 Facebook post to help educate the public on how to spot skimmer devices and protect themselves from EBT fraud.

Federal authorities are leading the investigation.

Copyright 2025 by Romero Broadcasting System, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, rewritten, or redistributed.

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ORIGINAL STORY — October 8

PATRICK COUNTY, Va. (rbs news now) — The Patrick County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents to be on alert for Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card fraud after investigators recovered a card skimming device at a local business.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the device was designed to capture card information from unsuspecting users.

Investigators with the Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Social Services have reported 49 cases of EBT fraud in September and 76 cases so far in October.

“We want our community to be aware of this criminal activity and take steps to protect their benefits,” said Lieutenant Steve Austin.

The Sheriff’s Office did not specify which local business the device was found in.

Authorities are asking you to take the following precautions:

• Inspect card readers for loose parts or unusual attachments before swiping or inserting a card.
• Shield your PIN when entering it.
• Monitor your EBT account regularly for suspicious activity.

The Virginia Department of Social Services has launched an app that allows users to lock and unlock their EBT cards to prevent unauthorized transactions.

The feature can be accessed here.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone who believes they have been a victim of EBT card fraud is asked to contact the Department of Social Services (number listed on the back of the card) or call the Patrick County Sheriff’s Office at 276-694-3161.

Copyright 2025 by Romero Broadcasting System, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, rewritten, or redistributed.