As a Michigan notary, I’m often dealing with sensitive documents and witnessing firsthand the importance of protecting personal information. While I can’t offer legal advice, I want to share some crucial information about a growing concern: children’s identity theft. It’s a crime that can have long-lasting consequences, impacting a child’s credit history even before they’ve started building it.
Why Children?
Children are surprisingly attractive targets for identity thieves. Their Social Security numbers (SSNs) are often unused and have clean credit histories, making them a blank slate for fraudulent activity. Thieves might use a child’s SSN to open credit accounts, apply for loans, or even claim government benefits. Because it can take years for the fraud to be discovered, the damage can be extensive.
How Does It Happen?
Children’s identities can be stolen in various ways:
- Data Breaches: Unfortunately, data breaches are becoming increasingly common, and these breaches can expose children’s personal information along with their parents’.
- Lost or Stolen Documents: Birth certificates, Social Security cards, and school records are valuable to identity thieves.
- Family Members: Sadly, sometimes the perpetrator is someone the child knows, even a family member.
- Online Activity: Children are spending more time online, which increases their exposure to potential threats.
What Can Parents Do?
Here are some proactive steps you can take to protect your children:
- Safeguard Your Child’s SSN: This is the most crucial piece of information to protect. Keep their Social Security card in a secure location, and only provide the number when absolutely necessary. Ask why it’s needed, how it will be used, and how it will be protected.
- Be Mindful of School Forms: Review school forms carefully and only provide the information that is truly required. Question why certain information is being requested and how it will be used.
- Monitor Your Child’s Mail (and Yours): Be alert for any suspicious mail addressed to your child, even if it seems like junk mail. Sometimes pre-approved credit offers or other solicitations can be a red flag.
- Regularly Check Your Own Credit Reports: While you’re checking your own credit reports (which you should do annually at AnnualCreditReport.com), look for any signs of accounts or activity you don’t recognize, which could be a sign someone is using your child’s information.
- Be Cautious Online:
- Limit Information Sharing: Be very careful about what information you share about your child online, including on social media. Avoid posting their full name, birthdate, or other identifying details.
- Monitor Online Activity: Supervise your child’s online activity and teach them about online safety. Explain the importance of not sharing personal information with strangers.
- Secure Devices: Ensure your computer, tablet, and smartphone are protected with up-to-date antivirus and anti-malware software.
- Talk to Your Children: Educate your children about the importance of protecting their personal information. Teach them not to share their name, address, or other details with anyone online or in person without your permission.
- Consider a Credit Freeze (for Older Children): If your child is older (around 16), you might consider placing a credit freeze on their credit file. This can prevent new accounts from being opened in their name. Keep in mind that you may need to provide documentation to prove you are the parent or legal guardian. Contact the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) for specific instructions.
- Be Proactive, Not Reactive: Don’t wait until you suspect something is wrong. Take steps now to protect your child’s identity.
What to Do if You Suspect Identity Theft:
If you believe your child’s identity has been stolen, take immediate action:
- File a Police Report: Report the crime to your local law enforcement agency.
- Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Report the identity theft to the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov.
- Contact the Credit Bureaus: Notify the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) and follow their instructions for addressing the situation.
Resources:
Attorney General’s Office in your state: The Attorney General’s office can provide information and resources on identity theft.
Protecting your children is a top priority. By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of your child becoming a victim of identity theft. Remember, vigilance is key!
Disclaimer: This blog post provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. For specific legal guidance, consult with a qualified attorney.