Identity theft is not just for grown-ups anymore. It’s now happening to young children, even babies. Identity thieves are stealing the Social Security Numbers of young people and applying for credit cards and loans. The biggest issue is that the crime is usually not detected until several years later, when that young person tries to apply for a credit card and is rejected due to a poor credit history. But, the good news is that you can take steps to protect yourself and your children before this happens.

First, protect personal information carefully. Be sure your son or daughter does not post his or her phone number, address or school name on the Internet. Tell your children not to let their friends post their personal information either.

Next, when you don’t need documents anymore, be sure to shred any paper with Social Security Numbers on it; yours and your kid’s. Also, be wary of credit card offers that come in the mail addressed to your kids. Some mail may come if you have opened credit in your child's name, as a joint account holder, so don't be too alarmed if you’ve done that. But be wary.

You can also check with the credit agencies to see if a credit report exists for your son or daughter. You can do this for free, once a year, by calling 877-322-8228. Or, you may wish to subscribe to services that check your credit more frequently for a fee.

Another idea is to check for an earnings report from the Social Security Administration. You can get your earnings record by requesting it online at https://secure.ssa.gov/apps6z/isss/main.html

Finally, if you think your child's identity has been hijacked, contact the FTC via the Internet or phone (877) IDTHEFT or (877) 438-4338.