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According to a new report from the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, South Carolinians lost over $264 million to online crime in 2025, a 26% increase from the previous year. The report, based on more than one million complaints nationwide, shows the top cybercrimes in the state were investment fraud ($84.7 million), business email compromise ($64.5 million), and tech support scams ($28.8 million). Residents aged 60 and older were hit the hardest, filing the most complaints and losing $97.3 million.
Why it matters
The sharp rise in cybercrime losses in South Carolina reflects a troubling national trend, with reported losses topping $20 billion across the country in 2025. As more of daily life and commerce moves online, cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their tactics to defraud individuals and businesses. This data underscores the need for greater public awareness, robust cybersecurity measures, and stronger law enforcement efforts to combat these growing threats.
The details
The 2025 Internet Crime Report from the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center found that South Carolina ranked 21st nationally in both total complaints and in the separate 2025 Elder Fraud Report. Losses in the state jumped by $118 million compared to 2024, when victims reported $146 million stolen through online schemes. The FBI identified three categories responsible for the largest financial losses in South Carolina: investment fraud ($84.7 million), business email compromise ($64.5 million), and tech support scams ($28.8 million).
- The 2025 Internet Crime Report is based on more than one million complaints nationwide.
- In 2024, South Carolina victims reported $146 million stolen through online schemes.
- In 2025, South Carolinians lost over $264 million to online crime, a 26% increase from 2024.
The players
FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center
The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center is the central hub for reporting and tracking cybercrime in the United States.
Kevin Moore
Kevin Moore is the special agent in charge of the FBI Columbia Field Office.
What they’re saying
“Cybercrime isn’t just a growing threat — it’s a constant one. As the FBI works tirelessly to dismantle these criminal networks, we call on the public to do their part by adopting strenuous cyber hygiene practices and remaining vigilant in every online transaction.”
— Kevin Moore, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Columbia Field Office
What’s next
The FBI is encouraging people to slow down and evaluate suspicious messages, calls, or online interactions before sharing money or personal information, as many scams rely on creating a false sense of urgency. The bureau also urges anyone who believes they or someone they know may be a victim of online fraud to contact their local FBI office or file a report at ic3.gov as soon as possible.
The takeaway
The sharp rise in cybercrime losses in South Carolina reflects a troubling national trend, underscoring the need for greater public awareness, robust cybersecurity measures, and stronger law enforcement efforts to combat these growing threats. As more of daily life and commerce moves online, individuals and businesses must remain vigilant against increasingly sophisticated tactics used by cybercriminals.
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