Treasurer Loftis' Financial Literacy Tour Set For September 17 & 18

(Columbia, SC) – State Treasurer Curtis Loftis has announced his ongoing Financial Literacy Tour will be a statewide series of forums designed to inform the public about ways to protect themselves against financial fraud and identity theft. The free “Safe, Smart and Secure” forums will feature Treasurer Loftis and industry experts from event co-sponsors MasterCard and AARP.

“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,” Treasurer 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.”

WHAT: Treasurer Loftis’ Financial Literacy Tour: Safe, Smart and Secure Forums

WHEN: 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. ColumbiaTuesday 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

Previously, the Treasurer’s Financial Literacy Tour featured Treasurer Loftis teaching elementary school kids important lessons on savings and money management. In his ongoing commitment to financial education, the topic of this tour will be adult education related to theft and security issues.

South Carolina ranks 20th nationwide in per capita identity theft complaints, according to a study by Javelin Strategy and Research. Palmetto State identity theft cases increased 15% in 2011 compared with 2010. That same report showed in 2011, nearly 12 million Americans were victims of identity theft, representing an increase of 13% over 2010.

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