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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…

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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.”