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Did you know kids can be victims of identity theft too? It’s scary, but true. Thieves love targeting children because their credit history is clean and that makes it easier for fraud to go unnoticed for years. The good news? You can take steps right now to keep your child safe.

1. Watch for Red Flags

If you start getting credit card offers, bills, or even tax notices in your child’s name, that’s a big warning sign. Kids shouldn’t have any credit activity until they’re older, so don’t ignore those letters.

2. Check Their Credit Around Age 16

Before your teen heads off to college or gets their first job, pull a credit report through AnnualCreditReport.com. If you see accounts or inquiries you don’t recognize, act fast—contact the credit bureaus and put a fraud alert in place.

3. Freeze Their Credit

One of the best ways to protect your child is by placing a credit freeze. It’s free, and it stops anyone from opening accounts in their name. You’ll need to contact all three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) and provide documents like your child’s birth certificate and proof you’re their parent or guardian.

4. Keep Personal Info Safe

Guard your child’s Social Security number like gold. Shred paperwork you don’t need and be cautious about sharing personal details online or in forms.

5. If Something Seems Off, Act Quickly

If you suspect identity theft:

• File a police report.
• Contact the Ohio Attorney General’s office and the FTC.
• Notify credit bureaus and any affected companies to shut down fraudulent accounts.

6. Use Free Help

The Ohio Attorney General’s office offers resources and guidance for parents. Visit www.OhioProtects.org or call 1?800?282?0515 if you need help.