As the final semester for high school seniors is upon us, you and your teenager are probably becoming more excited about the new frontiers ahead. It becomes a part of your routine to talk about colleges, courses, and tuition fees for the upcoming school year. And when you have some free time, you personally visit several campuses with your child. Going to college is a very exciting event in every young adult’s life. Being accepted into the school of their choice is a celebration for the whole family

However, this is merely the start of more challenges. As you apply for financial assistance in the form of student loans, aid, scholarships, or grants, you are shocked to find out that the application has been denied due to poor credit. The letter informs your child that the rejection is based on derogatory remarks found on their credit report. You think this cannot be possible because your child has never had a credit transaction in the past.

Then it hits you, your child’s identity has been stolen. A quick look at their credit report confirms your worst fears. It contains strange lines of credit as well as addresses you never even heard of.

Growing Trend in Stealing Children’s Identity

Identity thieves are getting trickier with their tactics. Because a lot of their historical practices have been uncovered by credit-conscious individuals, they are now targeting the more vulnerable in society: children. The Social Security numbers of children are particularly sought-after by these thieves because no one is likely to check them. Parents feel secure that their children are safe and are unlikely to hassle with protecting or monitoring their credit history.

In a normal situation, it is rare for a child to be involved in any credit transaction until they reach the age of 18, at the earliest. Your child’s credit might have been abused without anyone knowing until its too late. Often times, most people only become aware that a crime has been committed when they attempt to buy a car, apply for their first job, or even purchase a mobile phone. Any activity that requires a background check from the creditor typically reveals these discrepancies and issues.

Today’s dangerous environment requires parents to be proactive in protecting their children’s identity. The days when you can trust your neighbors and the community are gone. The world has expanded and the thief may be just blocks away from you or they can be in the other end of the globe. Protecting your family early on is the best way to prevent identity theft from happening to you and your loved ones.