Service to protect kids from ID theft launches

Service to protect kids from ID theft launches

AllClear ID is launching a service for consumers interested in protecting their children from identity theft.

The free ChildScan service allows users to add their child's Social Security number to a database hosted by credit management company TransUnion. Creditors are then alerted if their information is ever used to apply for credit.

AllClear says protections provided by the service are available until the child turns 17.

The ChildScan rolls out as AllClear warns of the rise in child identity theft in a recent report.

According to their findings, children are 35 times more likely to fall victim to ID theft than adults. ID thefts of kids under the age of 5 has more than doubled, says the report.

The reason? AllClear ID says since children haven't established a credit history, they have clean records that are prime targets for thieves.

"It's important for parents to understand that child ID theft is a real and growing trend," said AllClear ID CEO Bo Holland in a statement. "Rather than letting this trend continue, consumers -- parents especially -- should take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their child's livelihood."