Parenting Pointers: BTS Child Identity Safety

The tips I'm sharing today are very similar to the tips I shared just a few days ago, but I think it's a very important issue that bears repeating. As you're signing your kids up for extracurricular activities, school, or college this fall, you'll have lots of paperwork. But be careful about the information you provide. Many parents may not realize that because credit issuers do not have the means to verify the age of an applicant, a criminal can easily use a minor’s Social Security Number (SSN) and name to establish a new line of credit.

Intersections Inc. is an identity theft and risk management firm and they want to share the following back-to-school tips and ways you can protect their children this coming school year.

Keep Personal Information Personal. If you are asked for your child’s Social Security number, ask these three questions: Why is it needed? Isn’t there another way to identify my child? How will my child’s information be protected? Lock birth certificates and documents with your child’s Social Security number in a safe place and only carry with you when absolutely necessary.

Ask Why Before Giving PII.  Most schools ask parents to provide sensitive information when enrolling a child, but in the case of a child’s Social Security number; this information may not be necessary, simply preferred. Before giving access to your child’s SSN or birth certificate, feel empowered to ask why the information is needed and how it will be protected. Unless you initiate contact, do not provide your child’s Social Security number (or any part of it) over the phone, online or in-person.

Share Safety Tips. Share your knowledge with your children and remind them to keep their information private. Children may be asked to answer questions about themselves on the first day of school, but remind them that personal information like their home address, phone number, or social security numbers should not be shared with anyone. Talk with your children about identity theft. Create a safe environment with open dialogue. Leave the door open for them to ask questions or express concerns.

Teach Safe Surfing. Technology has become a part of children’s lifestyles. Teach your children how to be safe online and make sure they are avoiding sites that could be dangerous or inappropriate for minors. Stay strict about social networking age limits.

Keep An Eye Online. Keep up on your child’s online activity. A recent Consumer Reports survey found that 7.5 million of the estimated 750 million people on Facebook are younger than 13, and more than 5 million of those are 10 and under. Talk to your kids about which sites are appropriate and update your computer’s security. You might consider using parental control software or services to help monitor your child’s online activity.