The South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs (SCDCA) released new data on scams Tuesday. The report outlines total losses and the demographics most targeted. Residents filed 272 scam reports between January and June. The sum of actual losses reported was $2,254,523.
Purchase scams were the most common, followed closely by debt collection and fake warrant threats. Richland, Greenville and Horry counties saw the highest number of reported scams. Most scams reported were conducted by phone.
Cryptocurrency scams alone accounted for more than $318,000 in losses.
State officials said in the report to watch out for red flags. Warning signs include high-pressure demands to pay immediately by crypto, gift cards or wire transfers.
SCDCA hosts free weekly webinars to promote consumer knowledge and safety. Registration can be done online.
