140,000 Identity Theft Frauds against Children each year

February 27, 2012


Would it surprise you to know that almost every child born is a potential victim of identity theft? A Chicago Tribune article in January reported “there are 140,000 identity frauds committed against children per year in the United States.” While it’s not something for parents to obsess about, there are steps you can take to prevent identity theft from happening to your child.

Protect that social security number

Last year, the Social Security Administration began issuing random social security numbers, however, anyone born before that most likely has a sequential number based on their geographic location. Most identity thieves have caught on to taking the social security numbers of children and using them to access multiple lines of credit because no one checks a child’s credit report. In fact, it’s difficult to access a report based solely on a social security number.
While you can check a credit report for free each year, there are other things that can tip you off to a potential breach in identity: receiving credit offers in your child’s name, receiving documents pertaining to jobs your child has never had, or being denied credit due to poor credit history.

Why worry about identity theft?

When your child is 6 or 7 years old (or younger!) you may not even be thinking about credit opportunities or loan issues. But many families will find themselves relying on financial aid for college after their children graduate from high school. If a parent can take the time earlier on to check for any red flags or indications of identity theft when their child is still high school, they will have given themselves the time to correct anything that’s incorrect. A clear credit report will make securing college monies much easier down the line.
While identity theft of children isn’t an epidemic, more and more children are creating online identities earlier and younger. Gaming, school requirements, and the prevalence of tablets and smart phones make capturing an unsuspecting child’s identity possible. Taking a few steps and being vigilant with your child’s information can save you worry and trouble in the long run.


Richard Figley
Independent Associate
614-395-2313
Obtain ID Theft Restoration HERE