What parents need to know about child identity theft

You may have considered identity protection measures for yourself. But how about for your children? Children can’t apply for credit on their own until they’re 18, and they likely have few financial assets. However, they do have valuable personal data fraudsters want.

A young person’s data identity is uniquely vulnerable because the fraud can go on for years if undetected. It may continue until they turn 18 or when they first try to apply for credit on their own. Children, like adults, can become victims of identity theft in a number of ways. It could be by having their data exposed in a breach or having their personal information fall into the hands of unethical family members or friends.

With a child’s personal information in hand, fraudsters may attempt a number of schemes. These can include opening up credit accounts, signing up for utility services and applying for government benefits under the child’s name.

 

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