Statistics reveal that numerous identity theft victims are elderly adults. Although the reasons are not very clear, it could be due to older folks not being as knowledgeable with the Internet or with protocols for giving out their personal data online as the younger generation are. They are more likely to be a victim of identity theft and fraud simply because they are more susceptible to online and mail scams. However, there has been a marked growth in the number of children that have fallen victim too. Increasingly children are having their social security numbers and other private data taken from situations that should be trustworthy. It is therefore a good idea to begin Identity theft prevention at an early age.

Preventing identity theft for minors should commence when they move into the education system. Preschools, elementary schools and high schools always ask for the child’s social security number as a means of verification and to keep track of the child’s education. Nevertheless, parents will frequently be asked to fill out extra documents for the teacher’s classroom as well. You are under no obligation to give your child’s social security number to the teacher and if they do ask for it, find out why. This same rule applies to day cares, activity groups and organizations.

If the group takes a firm stand that they need it for identification purposes, you can obtain a child identification card from your local Department of Motor Vehicles. These cards include name and address details, birth date and a head shot of your child. Explain to the organization that preventing identity theft is of great importance to you. There are numerous reports of an identity thief using a child’s details to create a new identity for him or herself. Any details provided to the school or organization could easily be stolen. You can do your part to stop identity theft before it begins by just using a little bit of common sense.

If you have any concerns concerning the integrity of your child’s details or if you suspect that a caregiver or even a family member has compromised any private details of your youngster, you should immediately report identity theft to the proper authorities. Aside from the identity thief being caught and appropriately punished, this will also help in correcting information held on your child’s credit report. Anyone who has had their identity stolen, no matter their age, will have a credit report.

Give your child a bright start to their future by practicing identity theft prevention early. Far too many identity theft victims are younger than sixteen years of age. This can ruin their credit and hopes for a car, a job and even getting into university. Keep your child’s data secure and be judicial about who has access to that information.