Guard Against Child Identity Theft

Guard Against Child Identity Theft

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Chances are, you shred or secure any paperwork

that contains personally identifying information,

such as your Social Security number or birth date.

But do you do the same for your children?

You ought to. The Federal Trade Commission

(FTC) estimates that at least 6 percent of all identity

theft cases involve children. That's because

youngsters' personal information is appealing to

thieves, who can use it to build a clean credit profile

where one doesn't currently exist. Another reason: It takes longer to get caught.

Adults may be actively involved in the credit world, checking statements and scores, but

"parents aren't checking their children's credit, so thieves can do more damage over an

extended amount of time," says Eva Velasquez, president and CEO of the Identity Theft

Resource Center, an organization dedicated to educating consumers and assisting victims.

The good news is, with a few simple steps you can better safeguard your children's personal

information and pursue any problems on their behalf.

Ask questions. Many schools and extracurricular programs ask for kids' Social Security

numbers and other personally identifying information in order for them to participate. Ask why

they need this information and whether it's mandatory. If it's indeed required, "ask them how

they will keep the information secure," advises Velasquez. Then determine whether you're

comfortable with that level of protection.

Know warning signs. "If you're receiving things

in your child's name that would typically be for

adults only, that's a red flag," says Velasquez.

Warning signs include:

• Collection notices

• Bills or new credit cards

• Traffic violation warrants

• Jury summons

Don't request credit reports. Unless you have a strong suspicion or know for certain that your

child's identity has been compromised, resist the temptation to check for a credit report in your

Guard Against Child Identity Theft

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child's name as a preventive measure. "If your child doesn't have a credit file?and they

shouldn't?you could actually open one up accidently by checking it," says Velasquez.

Take action. If you suspect fraud? Or can confirm it? Contact the Identity Theft Resource

Center immediately toll-free, at 888-400-5530. They'll listen to your concerns and work with you

on next steps. You'll also want to contact the FTC to get help measuring the scope of the

problem, and then file a report with your local police department.

Promote privacy. It's important to teach

children the importance of protecting their

own personal information, so they don't set

themselves up to be victimized. Velasquez

recommends teens and parents check out

ConnectSafely, an online resource that offers tips for safeguarding your information online. For more information about how to safeguard you child against identity theft, visit this website.