PA Officials Warn Of WIC Scams

HARRISBURG, PA — Officials in Pennsylvania are warning about possible scams involving food assistance programs.

Participants of the state's Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children should not to disclose their personal information without verifying the identity of the caller, the state warned.

"Although WIC clinics do perform eligibility determinations, they will never call participants to request their bank account information to deposit funds directly into their accounts," the state health department said in a news release.

“The WIC program provides access to resources for mothers and children across Pennsylvania and we do not want our WIC participants worried about being taken advantage of – especially during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Sec. of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “We want participants to be alert, but know their information is protected and their benefits will continue to be distributed through secure means. Please be aware of potential scammers looking to steal personal information and report their number so more Pennsylvanians do not have this experience.”

If a WIC participant is unsure if a request for information is legitimate, they should contact their local WIC office. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, WIC services will be available over the phone or by virtual appointments until counties reopen into the green phase. Find the address, hours of operation, and contact information for their local WIC clinic here.

Pennsylvanians should report scams to their local law enforcement or file a consumer complaint to the Office of the Attorney General through an online form, by calling 800-441-2555, or by email at scams@attorneygeneral.gov.