Identity theft poses a unique challenge as it can go unnoticed for extended periods. Recent data revealed that there were 726,396 instances of identity theft reported in just the first three quarters of 2024. This crime is a significant threat to everyone, including children.

Many might assume that their kids are safe from identity theft due to their lack of credit history, but this is a misconception. Among the reported cases, 17,559 (or 2%) involved individuals under 19. The primary vulnerability lies in a child’s Social Security number; once it falls into the wrong hands, a thief can engage in “synthetic identity theft,” which involves blending the minor’s details with fabricated information to create new financial accounts.

While taking steps to shield your children from obvious online scams is vital, safeguarding them against identity theft is equally essential.

Examine Their Credit Report

Start by checking whether your child has an existing credit report. They shouldn’t have one unless you’ve opened an account in their name or listed them as an authorized user on one of your credit cards. This can be accomplished through the three major credit bureaus by either filling out a form (Equifax, Experian) and submitting it via mail, or by completing an online request (TransUnion).

If a credit report exists without any previous actions taken to build your child’s financial history, they may be a victim of identity theft. It’s crucial to freeze their credit right away and follow the additional protective measures outlined below.

Think About Freezing Their Credit

Regardless of whether a credit report for your child exists, initiating a credit freeze is a smart move. Given that minors typically won’t need to access credit for years, taking precautionary measures against identity theft is wise.

Each major credit bureau offers a process for parents to freeze their child’s credit (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion). If no report exists, they will generate one and then proceed to freeze it. This process typically requires printing and mailing forms along with supporting documents to prove authority, including a valid driver’s license, both your birth certificate and the child’s, Social Security cards, and proof of residence (such as a utility bill).

In some cases, older minors may be able to request a credit freeze themselves. Experian accepts requests from children aged 14 and older, while TransUnion and Equifax allow those aged 16 and above to do so.

Once the credit freeze is successfully placed, it can remain in effect until your child reaches an age where they may need to apply for credit. Take care to store the thawing instructions securely for future reference.

Steps to Take If Your Child’s Credit Report is Fraudulent

Should you discover that your child has a suspicious credit report, act promptly by following these steps:

• Request a copy of the report and inform every entity associated with the accounts that they are fraudulent. Ensure you obtain written proof that the accounts were fraudulent and have been closed.

• Freeze your child’s credit report, as mentioned above.

• Report the identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at identitytheft.gov. The FTC will assist in formulating a recovery plan and direct you to the necessary government services, such as how to handle a compromised Social Security number or proving that your child was not involved in any unlawful activities due to identity theft.