How to Protect Your Child’s Identity Online

How easy is it for thieves to steal your child’s identity? Easy. Most children already have social security numbers established, which immediately puts them on the map for identity theft. Their sparkling clean credit records are very appealing to thieves. As parents generally aren’t in the habit of checking in on their kid’s credit reports, identity theft may go unnoticed for years, wreaking havoc on their credit ratings.

Another way they can zero in on kids? Through what you, the parent may be posting on your own social networking sites, such as Facebook. Thieves can get date of birth, full names, and other information from what you post. Make sure you adjust your privacy settings on your account, and as always, be careful what you share.

Kids also put their own identities in danger while they are online. Here are some basic tips to keep your kids safe online while protecting their identity:

• Make sure your family computer is in a central location in the house, such as the family room.

• Set up Parental Controls on your computer, to set limits and guidelines of what they can see and do online.

• Discuss the importance of not sharing personal information while online. Make sure they know that anything they send, post or share is out there forever.

• Explain to your kids about viruses and other malicious software, so they are aware of the potential threats.

• Be sure your wireless internet connection at home is encrypted.

• Use a multi-layered approach to security. Make sure your firewall is on, install and utilize anti-virus software, and use an anti-malware program. ChicaPC-Shield™ is a free scan that will detect malware that may be lurking on your computer.

A little prevention will go a long way in protecting your kids online. It’s also much easier to prevent identity theft now, than have to clean up and sort through the aftermath of an identity theft situation.

Have you talked to your kids about staying safe and protecting their identities online?

–Angela Skinner Mullen