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  • 15 Oct 2014

Identity theft, as we all know, is a growing problem, and a billion dollar industry for those who steal personal identifying information and then use or sell it. Most of the recent news about the issue focuses on large retailers and others, whose computers were “hacked”, leading to the theft of credit card numbers, PIN numbers, and other financial information, along with your name and address. It’s happened to customers of Home Depot, Target, and lots of other companies.

In the case of thieves planting malware that copies and extracts the financial information, the process often ends up with a “cloned” credit card, which is then used, with the charges eventually showing up on your bill. But what if you were a young man or woman, still in high school, and planning your college years? What if you apply for a college loan, and find out that you are already in debt to the tune of thousands upon thousands of dollars, even though you’ve never borrowed a dime, obtained anything on credit, or otherwise racked up any debt whatsoever?

That’s the dilemma faced by many youngsters, and their parents. Researchers at the Center for Identity at the University of Texas say children, in fact, are targeted 35 times more often for identity theft than adults. The added benefit to the thieves is obvious – in most cases, it will be years before anyone finds out about the theft. In the case of social security numbers, the Center says that data breaches at school, a doctor’s office, or a sports league are most common. Kids may also reveals important information on social media, online gaming, and other websites.

From a parent’s point of view, you need to know how to find out if there is a potential problem. Most people are not going to run credit checks on their children, but that is one alternative. Another recommendation is to check the mail. If your child is receiving credit card offers, his or her identity is out there to one degree or another. Here are some additional tips:

  • If someone (school, etc.) asks for your child’s social security number, see if you can supply alternative identifying information.
  • Don’t reveal personal information in emails, on social media sites, or on any websites.
  • Keep the privacy settings on social media sites as private as possible. Even information such as your mother’s maiden name can be used to further identity theft.

Child identity theft is a problem, but as we’ve pointed out, there is something you can do to lessen the chance that it will harm your family.

Law Office of David D. White, PLLC
1201 Rio Grande Street #200
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 369-3737

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This Website is meant for marketing purposes only. The website and communications through it do not constitute a client-attorney relationship. David White is a criminal defense attorney with offices in Austin Texas. David defends clients throughout Austin and the surrounding areas.

Law Office of David D. White, PLLC
608 W. 12TH ST.
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 369-3737
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