CHILD IDENTITY THEFT — Consumer Guide For Parents
Child Identity Theft is rising—here’s how Los Angeles parents can protect their families
Most parents don’t think their child could be the target of identity theft. After all, they don’t have credit cards or bank accounts—right? But that’s exactly what makes children appealing targets for fraud. According to the Federal Trade Commission, child identity theft often goes undetected for years, until your child applies for a driver’s license, FAFSA, or their first job—only to learn their Social Security number has already been misused.
At R23 Law, our Los Angeles identity theft lawyers are seeing more cases involving stolen child identities. This blog will walk you through the financial impact, signs of trouble, and how to protect your child’s future.
The Hidden Impact of Child Identity Theft
Ruined credit before adulthood
Fraudsters can use a child’s SSN to open credit cards, take out loans, or sign up for utilities. By the time the child turns 18, their credit may already be in default.Blocked life milestones
Your child may be denied financial aid, housing, or jobs due to unpaid debts they never incurred.Legal and emotional stress for families
Untangling years of fraudulent activity can be time-consuming and resource-intensive, leaving families feeling betrayed, angry, and overwhelmed.
Signs Your Child’s Identity May Be Compromised
You receive IRS notices in your child’s name
Your child gets pre-approved credit offers
Your child is denied a bank account or public benefits
Collection agencies contact your child about debts
There’s a credit report in your child’s name (there shouldn’t be)
How to Prevent Child Identity Theft
Check for a credit report in your child’s name
Children typically shouldn’t have one. Visit AnnualCreditReport.com to confirm.Keep birth certificates and Social Security cards secure
Store them offline in a locked location.Be cautious with school, camp, and healthcare forms
Only share your child’s SSN if absolutely necessary—and ask why it’s needed.Freeze your child’s credit
You can request a credit freeze with all three major bureaus to prevent new accounts from being opened.Watch for suspicious mail
Credit card offers or debt collection letters in your child’s name are major red flags.
How R23 Law Can Help
At R23 Law, we understand how stressful and confusing identity theft can be, especially when it affects your child. Our Consumer Protection Attorneys provide:
Free case evaluations for parents concerned about child ID theft
Assistance in contacting the credit bureaus and filing disputes
Help completing FTC Identity Theft Reports and related affidavits
Legal support if the stolen identity has caused financial or reputational harm
Guidance in freezing your child’s credit and preventing future abuse
We serve families across Los Angeles and Southern California, offering multilingual support to ensure no parent is left behind when fighting for their child’s financial future.
👉 See our Identity Theft Services
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