There has been a lot in the media lately about Identity Theft and ways we can prevent it and things we should do to protect ourselves.  The other day I wondered about my children’s identity….can it be compromised?  Would I know it?  I monitor my credit report but I have never checked into those items concerning my children.  So, I did a little research and discovered that our children can be targets for that very reason…..we don’t monitor those items for our children.  We may not realize our kids have been a victim for year, until they get a driver’s license or apply for a credit card.  

 

Here are some important steps, we as parents, can take to safeguard our children:

 

Ø      Do not disclose a child’s Social Security number or supply a copy of a birth certificate unless absolutely necessary, – such as for school records or income tax returns.

Ø      Before providing personal information to a third party, such as a doctor’s office, ask how it will be protected. 

Ø      Do not let a child carry his or her Social Security card in a wallet or purse. 

Ø      Keep an eye out for credit card offers or other mailings to your child. They might be an early signal of identity theft. 

 

Yes, you can request a credit report for your children, just like you do for yourself!  If your children are under the age of 13 you must request the report by mail.  For more information, go to www.annualcreditreport.com  the website operated by the three credit-reporting companies.  You can also request a free copy of your own credit report there.

 

Until next time,

Jim