The “Identity Protection Amendment Act of 2017” enables a parent or guardian of a child to place a credit freeze on their behalf, shielding children from unknowingly becoming victims of identity theft before they have an opportunity to take control of their own credit, identity, and future. This provision would bring DC in line with numerous other states, including Virginia and Maryland, that have special rules to protect society’s most vulnerable. The bill also eliminates all fees for credit freeze services. The legislation was developed in concert with the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) and builds on similar emergency legislation introduced by OAG and temporarily passed into law after the Equifax data breach.

“The sad reality is that a child’s credit could be ruined before they enter elementary school,” said Councilmember Todd. “1.3 million American children have their identity stolen each year – over half of which are under six years old. Many of these thefts result in damaged credit scores that have lasting impacts. In light of this ongoing threat, and to guard against future devastating data breaches like Equifax, it is imperative that we reinforce consumer protections against unlawful use of our personal data and identity theft."