Child identity theft occurs when an individual unlawfully uses a minor’s sensitive details, such as their Social Security number, name, address, or date of birth, for personal gain or fraudulent activities. This may involve:
- Applying for state benefits, including healthcare or food assistance
- Opening new financial accounts or taking out loans in the child’s name
- Registering for utilities or renting property
Safeguarding your child’s details
To protect your child from identity theft, consider these steps:
Inquire about the need for your child’s Social Security number
Whenever an organization requests your child’s Social Security number, it’s wise to ask:
- What’s the purpose of needing it?
- How will it be securely stored?
- Is an alternative identifier possible?
- Can only the last four digits be used instead?
Secure sensitive documents
Store documents containing your child’s personal information in a secure location, like a locked filing cabinet. Shred these documents before disposal. If shredding isn’t an option, look for community shred events.
Before disposing of electronic devices, ensure all personal data, including your child’s information, is thoroughly erased.
Detecting unauthorized use of your child’s personal information
Stay vigilant for signs of misuse of your child’s personal information, such as:
- Being turned down for public benefits because your child’s Social Security number is already in use
- Receiving calls or notices about unpaid bills in your child’s name for accounts you didn’t open
- Notices from the IRS about unpaid taxes under your child’s Social Security number
- Denial of student loans due to poor credit history linked to fraudulent activities under your child’s identity
Checking for a credit report
Typically, children under 18 should not have a credit report unless their information has been misused. Contact the three major credit bureaus to request a manual search of your child’s Social Security number. You may need to provide:
- A copy of your ID
- Proof of residence
- Your child’s birth certificate
- Your child’s Social Security card
Legal guardians will need to provide documentation proving guardianship.
Actions to take if your child’s identity is stolen
If you discover identity theft, follow these steps promptly:
Step 1: Address and terminate the fraudulent accounts
Reach out to the involved companies, informing their fraud department of the issue and request the closure of any fraudulent account. Obtain written confirmation that absolves your child from any responsibility related to the account.
Inform each of the three credit reporting agencies about the fraudulent activity and request the removal of these accounts from your child’s credit history.
Step 2: Implement a credit report freeze
For children under 16, initiate a free credit freeze to prevent the opening of new accounts. This freeze remains until you choose to lift it. Minors aged 16 or 17 can manage this freeze themselves.
Contact the credit reporting agencies directly to set up the freeze.
Step 3: Report the theft to authorities
File a report with the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov, providing detailed information about the incident.
