State Treasurer Curtis LoftisCHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) -- Financial fraud and identity theft are persistent problems in South Carolina, according to Treasurer Curtis Loftis.
To combat the problems, Loftis has scheduled four public forums around the state next week.
Loftis announced the scheduling of the forums Thursday in a news conference at the College of Charleston.
"The Treasurer's Office handles millions of dollars daily, security is our top priority and it is important we share financial security strategies, which can be used by the general public," Loftis said. "Technology is an efficient tool for financial transactions, but it is vital we understand how to keep our information and accounts secure.
"Our Safe, Smart and Secure events will empower people to make sure they're protected."
Identity theft cases increased 15 percent in South Carolina in 2011 compared to figures from 2010, Loftis said. Nationally, nearly 12 million Americans were affected by identity theft, according to figures from the Treasurer's Office.
Forums will be held at the following locations:
Monday September 17
9
a.m. - Sun City Carolina Lakes: 5074 Grandview Drive Fort Mill, SC
4 p.m. -
Univ. of South Carolina: Moore School of Business Room A, 8th Floor,
1705 College St. Columbia
Tuesday
September 18
8:30
a.m. - Sun City Hilton Head: 127 Sun City Lane Bluffton, SC
12:30 p.m. -
College of Charleston: Wells Fargo Auditorium, 5 Liberty Street
Charleston
