Chapter 4. How do I protect my family and children from identity theft?

Children have clean financial slates. This makes them an easy target for identity theft. A child's Social Security number can be used by identity thieves to apply for government benefits, open bank and credit card accounts, apply for a loan or utility service, or rent a place to live. Adult Learners or other students with children need to check their children's credit reports to see if their information is being misused.

 

Many school forms require personal and, sometimes sensitive information. Find out how your child’s information is collected, used, stored, and thrown away. Your child’s personal information is protected by law. Asking schools and other organizations to safeguard your child’s information can help minimize your child’s risk of identity theft.

 

How to

Several signs can tip you off to the fact that someone is misusing your child’s personal information and committing fraud. For example, you or your child might:

If you think your child’s information is at risk, check whether your child has a credit report. Follow the same steps for reporting and protection as you do for yourself. Always remember prevention is the best protection you can provide to protect your family and your children.

 

Practice

Now that you know what to do to protect your children from identity theft. Think about paying it forward and discuss tips and other strategies with a friend or family members.

 

Congratulations! You can move on to Chapter 5. What should I do if my identity was compromised?

To review the full module on Identity Theft, click here.