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In an effort to tackle the rising issue of online fraud and cybercrime, South Carolina lawmakers have passed a new internet law aimed at protecting consumers and businesses from online scams and identity theft. The Internet Fraud Prevention Act, which was signed into law today by Governor John Smith, is set to go into effect on January 1, 2026.The new law requires all businesses operating within the state of South Carolina to implement stricter security measures on their websites and online platforms to protect sensitive customer information. This includes the use of encryption technology, secure payment processing systems, and regular security audits to identify and address any vulnerabilities.Additionally, the Internet Fraud Prevention Act also gives consumers more control over their personal information online. Under the new law, businesses must obtain explicit consent from customers before collecting or sharing their personal data, and must provide clear and transparent privacy policies outlining how that data will be used and protected.South Carolina Attorney General Jane Doe issued a statement in support of the new law, stating that it will help to "safeguard the online marketplace and give consumers peace of mind when conducting transactions over the internet." She also emphasized the importance of businesses being proactive in implementing these security measures to protect their customers and maintain trust in their brands.The passage of the Internet Fraud Prevention Act comes in response to a significant increase in online fraud and identity theft cases reported in South Carolina in recent years. According to a report from the South Carolina Cybersecurity Task Force, incidents of online fraud have nearly doubled in the state since 2022, with losses totaling in the millions of dollars.Lawmakers hope that the new law will help to curb this trend and make South Carolina a safer place for online consumers and businesses alike. Businesses found to be in violation of the Internet Fraud Prevention Act could face hefty fines and penalties, as well as possible civil and criminal charges for knowingly putting consumers at risk of fraud.Overall, the introduction of this new internet law marks a significant step forward in protecting individuals and businesses in South Carolina from the growing threat of online fraud and cybercrime. With the implementation of these stricter security measures, lawmakers are optimistic that the state's online marketplace will become a safer and more trustworthy environment for all.