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By Charles Lefebvre

Better Business Bureau warning of scam targeting children

Dec 17, 2019 | 10:27 AM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — The Better Business Bureau is warning Canadians about a new scam involving “free child safety kits” that are targeting families for their children’s personal information.

The southern Alberta office issued a news release Tuesday morning, saying scammers have been reported offering the kits in communities.

According to the release, the scammer will contact the parent over the phone, on social media or via email to offer the kit, and may explain police and safety officials recommend the kit contain up to date pictures of the child, along with their height, weight, birth date, fingerprints and a strand of their hair.

Scammers may insist that to receive your kit, you need to share sensitive personal information about your child, including their full name, address, birth date and Social Insurance Number. In some reports, parents say the person who contacted them said meeting the child at the home was a requirement to receive the kit.

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The Better Business Bureau say giving up your child’s personal information can make them a victim of identity theft, saying children are more likely to have their identities stolen than adults due to their blank credit report.

They’re reminding parents to never give your child’s personal information to a stranger, and especially never give out their Social Insurance Number. Parents should also take precautions to protect their children’s identity, including checking your child’s credit report for signs of fraud, and making sure your child’s school or doctor’s office will keep their personal information safe.

The organization adds to be wary of unsolicited offers.