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Tip Off to the Rip Off: How parents can protect their kids from identity theft

Social Security card with money
Getty Images

Parents should occasionally check their credit reports for fraud, but they should also take the time to check on their kids — even at a very young age.

Stealing Social Security numbers is a key to identity theft, and the younger the victim, the better for scammers. That's because it may be years before a teenager goes to apply for their first credit card or loan, which means detection may be delayed.


If crooks get your kid's Social Security number, they can compile the rest of the information, such as birthdays and addresses, online.

You can check your credit and theirs at AnnualCreditReport.com and sign up for alerts.

If you spot a profile for one of your kids, contact the major credit agencies immediately and freeze the account to stop further damage.

Teach kids to never reveal identity information in online quizzes, social posts and to be on the lookout for fake phishing emails.

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