How to protect your child from identity theft

JACKSON, Tenn. — Identity theft impacts not only adults but also children.

It costs U.S. families nearly $1-billion dollars each year, affecting about 1 in 50 children and can be very difficult to resolve. Their social security numbers and credit histories are usually a clean slate. The increasing use of social media by children at younger and younger ages exposes them to exploitation.

So, what are signs that a child has become the victim of identity theft?

• Unauthorized credit or loan statements in the mail.
• Collection calls and letters.
• Receiving pre-approved offers for credit or insurance in your child’s name.

“If you are on the fence about it, someone randomly giving you a call asking questions about your child’s personal information, like social security number, go ahead and research that phone number. Make sure that it’s coming from a legitimate source if you are expecting a call from someone. We have recovery plans as well for identity theft, packets that will help you, if you have been a victim of identity theft,” said Toddnetta Trice, communications specialist for the Better Business Bureau.

If your child is a victim of identity theft, contact the Federal Trade Commission to report the identity theft and get a recovery plan.

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