FTC Offers Tips on How To Protect a Child’s Information Following a Data Breach
Identity thieves can use a child’s personal information, like a Social Security number, to get a job, tax refund, open bank and credit card accounts, apply for a loan or rent a place to live, FTC Consumer Education Specialist Nicole…
Sign up for a free preview to unlock the rest of this article
Communications Daily is required reading for senior executives at top telecom corporations, law firms, lobbying organizations, associations and government agencies (including the FCC). Join them today!
Fleming wrote in a blog post Wednesday. In the event a child’s information is involved in a breach, check to see the child has a credit report, Fleming said. “Children shouldn’t have credit reports -- unless someone is using their information for fraud.” Some states allow a parent or guardian to place a freeze making it more difficult for someone to use a Social Security number to open new accounts, Fleming said. “Even if you aren’t aware of any problems, it’s a good idea to check your child’s credit history when he or she turns 16,” Fleming said. “That gives you time to fix any unexpected problems -- before your child applies for a loan, an apartment, or insurance.”