SCDSS warns public of phishing scam

The South Carolina Department of Social Services learned of possible phishing scams attempting to acquire personal identity information from individuals of federal benefit programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, according to a news release.

Reports of these scams may include threatening people with an arrest.

DSS reported these possible phishing scams to the authorities and is cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

In some situations, DSS employees may request South Carolina residents to confirm personal information over the phone. DSS staff will never threaten clients for information or ask for credit card or bank account information.

If you receive a call from DSS and think it to be fraudulent, hang up and contact the local county DSS office.

You can make a report of suspected scam calls by emailing SCDSS.Incident.Response@dss.sc.gov or calling (803) 898-1437.