A child does not need a credit card to become a victim of identity theft. A stolen Social Security number can be used to apply for a loan, open an account or sign up for utilities.

One preventive step is free: freezing a child’s credit.

The Federal Trade Commission advises parents of children under 16 to request a freeze from each of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. A freeze makes it harder for someone to open new credit accounts in the child’s name. It stays in place until removed.

Do Not Wait For A Warning Sign

Parents do not need to wait for a data breach or suspected fraud. The process for a minor differs from the process for an adult, so follow each bureau’s instructions on its official website.

Children generally do not have credit reports. Parents concerned about misuse can ask all three bureaus to conduct a manual search for their child’s Social Security number. Identification and documents proving the relationship may be required.

The FTC says an unexpected overdue bill, a notice about a child’s unpaid income taxes, or a benefits application rejected because someone else is using the child’s Social Security number can signal identity theft.

If fraud is found, contact the companies involved and the credit bureaus to close and remove fraudulent accounts. Report child identity theft at IdentityTheft.gov. Minors who are 16 or 17 may request and remove a freeze themselves.

Before sharing a child’s Social Security number, ask why it is needed, how it will be protected, and whether another identifier will do.