How To Recognize And Prevent Child Identity Theft

October 28, 2014 - LegalShield

There’s been a lot of news recently about celebrities and big companies being victims of identity theft and data breaches. Another increasingly concerning issue we haven’t heard much about, though, is child identity theft.

Imagine that an individual applies for a college loan, only to find out they are hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt because someone stole their identity when they were younger. The theft of a child’s identity is particularly troubling because it is often not discovered until the child is much older and just beginning to take on independent living and financial responsibilities.

Researchers at the University of Texas’ Center for Identity say studies show that children are 35 times more likely than adults to have their identity (or social security number) stolen – the chances of a parent running a credit check on a child are pretty slim, and therefor they are an easy target. This could result in the child being denied a school or car loan, being charged a high interest rate, or even a parent being responsible for a debt that neither they nor their child created.

It is important for parents to be aware of the danger of child identity theft and recognize signs that their child’s identity is, or was, misused, in order to take appropriate actions and protect their future. Here are some possible signs of child identity theft:

• The parent is not allowed to file his or her tax return electronically because the Internal Revenue Service already received a tax return with your child’s Social Security Number (SSN) listed on it.
• The child is denied for a government benefit or other program because someone is enrolled with the child’s SSN.
• A parent or grandparent tries to open a bank account for the child or grandchild and is told an account already exists associated with the child’s SSN.
• A collection agency calls about an account allegedly opened in the minor child’s name.
• A bill arrives in the child’s name for a service or product not purchased by the child or child’s parent(s).

We suggest parents to take the following steps to reduce the risk and protect their children from identity theft. If you are a member and feel that your child may be a victim of identity theft – or if you want to preemptively protect them from an identity theft situation – call 1-888-949-8519 to speak with an Identity Theft expert today. To become a member CLICK HERE or call 843-742-0940.

1. Don’t carry child’s Social Security card or birth certificate. Store those items in a secure place.
2. Don’t share too much information about your child on social media.
3. Use secure access to the Internet.
4. Install software on computer to reduce malware.
5. Consider using parental control software so you can approve of sites your children visit on the Internet.
6. Be a good example: let children see you protect your family’s information. For example, don’t leave your purse or wallet in your car for the sake of convenience; tell your kids why you’re taking it.
7. Discuss identity theft and best ways to reduce risk with your child.

 
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