Online gambling is not legal in South Carolina. The state maintains strict laws against most forms of gambling, including online betting. South Carolina Code § 16-19-40 explicitly prohibits betting on games of chance, making it a misdemeanor offense.

The only legal forms of gambling in South Carolina are:

The South Carolina Education Lottery
Charitable bingo
Raffles for charitable purposes

When it comes to online gambling specifically, there are no licensed or regulated online casinos, poker rooms, or sportsbooks operating legally within South Carolina. The state has not passed any legislation to legalize and regulate online gambling activities.

It's important to note that participating in illegal gambling activities in South Carolina can result in serious consequences. Penalties may include:

Fines up to $500
Imprisonment for up to 30 days
Additional charges for repeat offenses

While some residents attempt to access offshore gambling websites, this activity remains illegal under state law. Using VPNs or other methods to access these sites doesn't make it legal, and you risk both legal consequences and potential fraud from unregulated operators.

Social casino games, which use virtual currency and don't award real money prizes, are the only form of online gaming that's currently permitted in South Carolina.

For those seeking legal gambling options in South Carolina, the safest approach is to stick to the state lottery or participate in authorized charitable gaming events. Any attempts to circumvent these restrictions could result in legal troubles.

The landscape of gambling laws can change, so it's advisable to stay informed about current regulations. However, as of now, there are no indications that South Carolina plans to legalize online gambling in the near future.

If you're struggling with gambling addiction, South Carolina offers resources through the South Carolina Gambling Helpline, which provides free, confidential support 24/7.

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