Child Identity Theft: A Guide for Parents


When we think of identity theft, we typically picture adults as victims. However, child identity theft is an emerging and particularly damaging crime. A child’s clean slate—having a Social Security number without an associated credit history—makes them a prime target for fraudsters. Unfortunately, this crime is often discovered years later, when the child applies for student loans or their first job. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) offers resources to help parents combat this threat.

Parents should protect physical documents, be cautious about sharing their child's Social Security number, and educate their children about online privacy. Managing the technical side of a child's online access is just as crucial.

By installing SurfSafe on a family computer, parents gain powerful, easy-to-use tools. Simply check the "Adult Sites" blocklist in the General Settings to instantly make the internet safer for young minds. SurfSafe can also block categories like "Fraud/Scams," preventing children from accidentally clicking on harmful links. It’s peace of mind, knowing that SurfSafe offers reliable protection against the darker corners of the web.

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