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Child identity theft Parents have to worry about more than just themselves when it comes to identity theft. Children are targets, too. They account for 10% of all identity theft. It seems preposterous, but thieves can use any Social Security number, regardless of age. Credit bureaus do not have checks and balances. When someone turns in an application, they do not run a background check to confirm the information. A 40-year-old male can use a 5-year-old child’s Social Security number, no problem. Probably the most common areas for identity theft are doctors’ offices, dentists’ offices and daycares. Typically, they do not encrypt client records, making it a perfect place for thieves to attack. They can break into offices and steal massive amounts of information. Another hot spot for identity theft is, of course, the Internet. Children are lackadaisical with personal information and can easily set themselves up for an attack. Todd Davis, CEO of Lifelock, says, “Social networking sites are the most dangerous. Someone might ask, ‘Where were you born?’ or, ‘Do you have a pet?’ They don’t really care about that stuff. What they are doing is probing you; they are trying to figure out how to break into your password.” Identity theft can go unnoticed for years. It may not be until your child applies for his first job, student loan or insurance that he realizes the theft. It is advisable to check with the Social Security Office once a year to make sure your child’s information has not been stolen. Davis wants to make it clear that no one is safe. He says, “Your information is out there.” It might sound crazy, but thousands of people a year are unknowingly scammed. Truthfully, it is likely that the number is higher. People do not realize identity theft is an issue until after it happens to them. There are several measures to prevent identity theft. First, enroll with an Identity Theft Protection Company. They will follow the usage of your Social Security number and if a request is being processed, will contact you. For a nominal fee, the whole family can be safeguarded, kids included. Second, install a computer program that protects your information from other users. Software with a firewall and an anti-virus program is the best. Third, when filling information online, check to make sure the website you are using is a secure site. A small lock in the upper right-hand corner signifies it is a secure website. Fourth, make sure the website URL reads https. The “s” stands for secure. A child’s identity is easier to steal than an adult’s. But anyone can become a victim of identity theft. – Kathleen Crain is an intern. |
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