Kids are attractive targets because they have a clean credit history and are unlikely to check their credit report. This allows thieves to go undetected for a longer period of time. In fact, the crime is often not revealed until the unsuspecting sixteen-year-old is applying for his first job or credit card.

Parents and kids should be very vigilant about protecting against identity thieves. Consider using these safeguards to protect your child’s credit history.

1. Guard Their Social Security Number

Once a thief gets a hold of your child’s social security number, they are on their way to spend and ultimately ruin a perfectly clean credit report. Treat your child’s personal information as if it were your own, and guard it carefully. There are very few places where Social Security Numbers are required. If you are asked to produce their number, ask specifically for the reason and how it will be protected.

2. Be Alert to Unsolicited Credit Card Offers

If you notice that offers for credit cards are being sent to your four-year-old, request a credit report. The only way someone should receive these offers is if a credit history has been established.

3. Educate Your Children

The internet allows your children to have much more access to individuals and internet scams that request personal information. Let your kids know the importance of protecting this information and educate them on internet offenses such as “phishing” and “pharming” emails.

4. Consider Family Members

Most children are victimized by someone they know – usually family members. Take caution with whom you share your child’s personal information. Even dear Aunt Betty may inadvertently share your child’s social security number with Cousin Fred who recently had his car repossessed. A good rule of thumb is to lock up your child’s information and keep the combination closely guarded.

Protecting your child’s credit history relies on the same factors as protecting them from any other harm—Education and Awareness. Find out more about identity theft yourself, and let your kids know about the importance of privacy. Then, pay attention to anything that seems out of the ordinary and take action.

You tell them “don’t talk to strangers”, “look both ways”, and “eat your vegetables”. These days you must add, “Don’t share your social security number” to you list of commands. I know it’s a mouth-full, but it could spare your child from years of heartache trying to unravel a sordid credit history they did not create.