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In July 2007, Barbara Whitaker of The New York Times told the story of Gabriel Jimenez. When Jimenez was 11 years old, the thieves lost his identity. Now 25 years old, he is still cleaning up the mess. His credit score may never recover.
What makes a child a favorite target?
For 2005, Federal Trade Commission records show 11,601 reports of identity theft filed on behalf of victims under the age of 18. Minors make ideal targets for identity thieves—the younger the victim, the more time they have to take advantage of a child’s identity.
This type of crime can go undetected for years. Why? In general, the child does not take on a credit obligation until he is 18 or older. Only after this the child or her parents check her credit file.
denied the rite of passage
The damage caused by minor bears can be wide and deep. For example, he may be denied a credit card or car loan. Worse, he may be forced to delay his education if he is not approved for his student loan. He may also miss out on job opportunities if potential employers require a credit check.
Here’s a worst-case scenario: A criminal can present the victim’s identification when arrested. Now, the child now has a criminal record even though the criminal is on the run.
If you are a parent, you…
1. View your child’s credit report, Credit reporting agencies do not knowingly keep credit files on children. Unless he has been a victim of identity theft, your child’s credit check should not amount to anything until he is 18.
To receive a credit report, you must contact the credit bureau by sending your child’s report through the mail to:
- Full Name
- Address
- Date of birth
- a copy of your child’s birth certificate
- A copy of your child’s Social Security card
Parents must also send a copy of their own driving license or other government-issued proof of identity. Such proof should include the current residential address. Lastly, parents must provide a current utility bill that includes their home address.
Mail these items to the credit reporting bureaus at the addresses below. Note, we recommend using certified mail with return receipt.
- Equifax, PO Box 740256, Atlanta, Georgia 30374
- Experian, PO Box 9532, Allen, TX 75013
- TransUnion, PO Box 6790, Fullerton, CA 92834
2. View Income Statement From the Social Security Administration. Unless your child has been a victim of identity theft, his or her Social Security number should not have any earnings associated with it. You can get income statement by making an online request at http://www.ssa.gov/ You can also call the Social Security Administration at (800) 772-1213 or visit your local office.
3. Protect Social Security Numbers, Laminate anything with a Social Security number on it. Keep all Social Security cards safe at home.
4. Warn your kids Don’t give out personal information unless it’s extremely important. Explain to them that they should not give such information. Even more so when they are online.
5. Be wary of credit offers to your children, Notify the credit bureaus if you see anything suspicious. Then, check your child’s credit report to find out if anyone is using his or her credit.
6. Get a Police Report, If someone steals your child’s identification, file a police report. Be sure to keep multiple copies on file. You will need reports to prove that your child is a victim.
7. Educate yourself. You can learn more by contacting the FTC at http://www.ftc.gov/ or (877) IDTheft.
we’re all in this together!
When criminals steal a child’s identity, we all pay the price. Thankfully, parents are becoming more vigilant. And, they’re getting better at detecting fraudulent activities in a timely manner. This makes it possible to protect the innocence of our youth.
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