When I was born, I was a unique individual with endless potential waiting to be unlocked by my parents. They gave me a name to identify me and nurtured dreams that I would build a life that brings me joy and fulfillment. Thankfully, no one had the power to dictate who I would become. However, protecting my identity became a priority, leading state and federal governments to create laws aimed at safeguarding the identities parents bestow upon their children.
To further emphasize the importance of protecting a child’s identity, September 1st was established as Child Identity Theft Awareness Day. So, what have we learned from this important observance?
Understanding Child Identity Theft
Child identity theft occurs when someone steals a child’s personal information, such as their Social Security number, to commit fraud. Legally, children’s data is highly protected, but unfortunately, children are 35 times more likely than adults to fall victim to new account identity theft. According to Javelin in 2021, one out of every 50 children experiences identity fraud. This stolen information can be misused in various ways, including:
- Tax Returns: Claiming children as dependents to receive tax refunds.
- Health Care Applications: Using a child’s information to access medical services.
- Bank Accounts: Opening bank accounts in the child’s name.
- Government Benefits: Applying for benefits fraudulently.
- Student Loans: Securing loans for future education under the child’s name.
One common way thieves obtain this information is by improperly disposing of documents that contain personal details. It’s crucial never to throw away identification documents in the trash or recycling without thoroughly destroying them. Shredding these documents ensures that identity thieves cannot read or reconstruct the information.
Early Detection is Crucial
Child identity theft often goes unnoticed for a long time. Many parents assume their child’s information is secure, not realizing that children don’t typically have credit histories until they reach adulthood. This means fraudulent activities can build up over time without any immediate signs. Regularly checking your child’s credit reports can help catch any suspicious activity early. Additionally, services that monitor and alert parents about potential misuse of a child’s Social Security number (SSN) are invaluable in preventing long-term damage.
Actively Guarding Personal Information
Protecting personal information such as SSNs, birth certificates, and medical records is essential. Even seemingly minor details can be targets for identity fraud. To safeguard your child’s information:
- Limit Sharing: Only share your child’s personal information with trusted individuals and organizations.
- Be Cautious Online: Avoid posting any private or identifying information on social media platforms.
- Secure Storage: Keep documents containing personally identifiable information (PII) in a secure location, such as a locked cabinet or safe.
Educate Your Children
Teaching your children about online safety and identity protection from an early age is crucial. They need to understand the importance of not sharing their personal information online and how to recognize phishing attempts on websites, emails, and text messages. Schools and community programs often provide valuable resources on cyber safety and identity theft prevention. By educating the entire family, everyone can work together to maintain vigilance and support each other in protecting personal information.
Monitor Activity
As a parent, it’s important to keep an eye on your child’s online and cellphone activities, as well as any other ways their information can be shared. Utilize parental control software to monitor your child’s internet usage and help them navigate the digital world safely. Regularly reviewing their online activities can help you spot any unusual behavior that might indicate identity theft.
Consequences of Identity Theft
The impact of identity theft on a child’s future can be profound and long-lasting. Damaged credit scores and financial reputations can affect their ability to secure loans, housing, and employment as adults. Addressing identity theft early is essential to prevent these negative consequences from shaping their future.
Prevention Instead of Cure
Preventing identity theft is far more effective than dealing with its aftermath. Here are some proactive measures to protect your child’s identity:
- Share Information Carefully: Only provide personal information to those you fully trust.
- Limit Shared Details: When possible, request the reason for needing personal information and suggest alternatives.
- Destroy Documents Properly: Shred all documents containing your child’s name, birthdate, address, or other personal information before discarding them.
- Protect Online Information: Avoid discussing any identifying information about your child on social media platforms.
Report and Resolve
Despite best efforts, identity theft can still occur. Knowing how to report and resolve it is crucial:
- Contact Credit Bureaus: Reach out to Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion to inform them of the fraud.
- File a Police Report: Officially report the identity theft to law enforcement.
- Notify the FTC: If necessary, inform the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to assist in the resolution process.
To resolve identity theft, take the following steps:
- Place Fraud Alerts: Add alerts to your child’s credit reports to prevent further fraudulent activity.
- Dispute Fraudulent Accounts: Challenge any unauthorized accounts opened in your child’s name.
- Work with Law Enforcement: Collaborate with authorities to address the criminal aspects of the identity theft.
Collaborate with Organizations
Working with various organizations can enhance your efforts to protect your child’s identity:
- Financial Institutions: Banks, credit bureaus, and other financial entities play a significant role in preventing identity theft.
- Educational Programs: Schools and community groups offer programs and resources to raise awareness about identity theft and provide practical prevention advice.
- Professional Shredding Services: Utilize a professional shredding company to securely destroy your child’s PII, whether through on-site services or walk-in drop-off options. No matter the volume of documents, secure shredding is essential for protecting your child’s identity.
Observe Child Identity Theft Awareness
To further combat child identity theft, consider the following actions:
- Raise Awareness: Engage in community discussions about steps to prevent identity theft and learn about different ways to protect your child’s data.
- Spread the Word: Share the importance of preventing child identity theft by writing articles, posting on social media, and using hashtags like #StopChildIDTheft to reach a wider audience.
- Expand Your Knowledge: Continuously educate yourself about phishing attacks and other methods criminals use to access personal information. Participate in workshops and discussions, such as those organized by Experian’s #CreditChat, to stay informed and prepared.
At Richards & Richards, our mission is to protect the information of the businesses and residents of Nashville and Central Tennessee. If you want to protect your child’s identity, we’re here for you with secure and compliant shredding services. Choose from on-site mobile shredding or drop-off shredding at our secure facility for complete destruction. Protect your child’s identity by contacting us at 615-242-9600 or by completing the form on this page. Let us help you safeguard your child’s future.
