Protecting Your Family's Digital Identity: A Parent's Guide

Children are increasingly targeted by identity thieves because their clean credit histories go unmonitored for years. By the time a child turns 18 and applies for their first credit card, they may already be a victim of identity theft. Here's how to protect your entire family's digital identity.

The Growing Threat to Children

Child identity theft affects over 1 million children annually in the United States. Criminals use children's Social Security numbers to open credit accounts, file fraudulent tax returns, and apply for government benefits. Because children don't typically have credit reports, these crimes can go undetected for a decade or more.

Steps to Protect Your Family

1. Freeze your children's credit with all three bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion)
1. Monitor your own credit reports and set up fraud alerts
1. Use identity monitoring services that cover the whole family
1. Teach children about online privacy and what information to never share
1. Secure home networks with strong passwords and updated firmware
1. Review app permissions on children's devices regularly

Bellator Cyber Guard offers personal and family cybersecurity services including identity monitoring, device security, and personalized security coaching. Schedule a free personal cyber review to understand your family's risk profile.