Ever think your baby’s first word might be “fraud”? Probably not, but identity thieves are making sure your child’s name is on more than just their birth certificate.
Identity theft is a growing issue, and while most people think of adults as the main victims, children are now prime targets. With a clean credit history and a Social Security number ripe for exploitation, even infants aren’t safe from fraudsters looking to cash in.
The Scam Unfolded
Criminals are finding new ways to steal personal information, and children are at the top of their list. Using data breaches, hacks, and fraudulent schemes, they access Social Security numbers and other personal details. Since children typically don’t apply for credit for years, identity thieves can use their information undetected, opening fraudulent accounts, securing loans, and even committing crimes in their name.
The worst part? Most victims don’t realize they’ve been affected until they apply for their first credit card, student loan, or apartment—only to find their credit has been destroyed.
A Real-World Wake-Up Call
In Maine, identity theft cases have surged, with nearly 1,400 reports last year alone. One major breach earlier this year targeted PowerSchool, an education technology provider storing student data for schools across the state. Over 33,000 Mainers were affected, and experts warn that stolen information could be exploited for years before it’s ever detected.
“We’ve heard of incidents where infants as young as two months old had their identity stolen,” says Jane Margesson of AARP Maine. “But who would know? It’s a tiny little child.”
Why This Matters
If your child’s identity is stolen, it can take years to untangle the damage. They could face denied loans, legal trouble, and even tax complications. The longer fraud goes unnoticed, the harder it is to correct.
How to Protect Your Child
Here’s how you can stay one step ahead of identity thieves:
- Freeze Your Child’s Credit: This is the best way to prevent fraudsters from opening accounts in their name. You can unfreeze it for free when needed.
- Check Their Credit Report: A child shouldn’t have a credit history. If anything shows up, it’s a red flag.
- Secure Personal Documents: Keep birth certificates, Social Security cards, and other sensitive information locked away.
- Respond to Data Breach Notifications: If your child’s information was exposed, take advantage of any free credit monitoring services offered.
Quick Tips & Updates
- Quick Tip #1: Did you know that 60% of child identity theft victims don’t discover the fraud until adulthood? Early checks can prevent years of financial headaches.
- Pro Tip: Avoid sharing your child’s Social Security number unless absolutely necessary. Schools, sports leagues, and even doctor’s offices don’t always need it.
Stay Safe, Stay Informed
Keeping your child’s identity secure is just as important as keeping them safe in the real world. Take action now to prevent years of trouble down the road.
Keyword Definitions:
- Identity Theft: The fraudulent acquisition and use of someone’s personal information, usually for financial gain.
- Data Breach: A security incident where confidential information is accessed or stolen without authorization.
- Credit Freeze: A security measure that restricts access to a person’s credit report, preventing new accounts from being opened.
- Fraudulent Accounts: Accounts opened or used without the authorized individual’s knowledge, typically for illegal financial gain.
- AARP: The American Association of Retired Persons, an organization that advocates for issues affecting older adults, including fraud prevention.
- Social Security Number (SSN): A unique number assigned to U.S. citizens and residents, often used for identification and financial transactions.
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