Child identity theft

This is something in my opinion doesn't get discussed often because who would think someone would use your child's name, social security number to open up a credit card. Unfortunately this is something that happens. I made a podcast about the recent equifax breach which reportedly has affected over 140 million customers. On this blog I discuss many topics and one of them is identity theft. I would encourage all of you to do what you can to protect your personal identity.

So think of how often you have to submit your child's personal information. When you register child for school you must submit their name, social security number and date of birth. Your question as a parent is to ask how are they using this information? How do they secure this information? Who has access to the files ? this is most likely when this personal information is put out there. I would speak to your local school board or school administration and find out how this information is being stored and secured.

Some of the warning signs your child's personal information is being use would be when you receive a letter from the IRS asking for an income tax filing. Image your young child who has not entered the workforce yet is being asked to pay taxes, another would be when you file for health insurance and they are denied because they have another insurer using insurance. You may get collection notices in your child's name from credit companies. Just to name a few.

In my post I alway advise you to run a credit report at least once a year on yourself. You should run a credit report in your child as well. Should you see any of the warning signs or you notice any unusual activity on your credit report please visit https://www.identitytheft.gov/ and file a report. I would encourage you to invest in some type of monitoring service or a credit freeze.

I hope this was helpful please leave a comment

Mark Carbajal