Episode 372

Renata Galvão: Surviving Child Identity Theft

Published on: 12th August, 2025

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In this episode of Fraudology Podcast, host Karisse Hendrick sits down with Renata Galvão to discuss the alarming rise of synthetic identity fraud targeting children. Galvo shares her personal story of having her identity stolen as a child in Brazil, detailing the devastating financial and emotional impacts that followed her into adulthood. The conversation explores how 1 in 50 minors in the U.S. are now victims of identity theft, with 73% of cases perpetrated by family members. Galvo, now working in the anti-fraud industry, provides valuable insights into how synthetic identities are created and aged using children's clean credit histories. She emphasizes the need for stronger identity verification measures by financial institutions, including age verification and biometrics. The episode also covers practical steps parents can take to protect their children, such as freezing their credit. With synthetic identity fraud being the fastest-growing type of identity theft, this episode is a must-listen for parents, fraud fighters, and anyone concerned about protecting vulnerable populations from financial crimes. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of this critical issue and learn how you can help combat child identity theft.

To connect with Renata Galvão

Fraudology is hosted by Karisse Hendrick, a fraud fighter with decades of experience advising hundreds of the biggest ecommerce companies in the world on fraud, chargebacks, and other forms of abuse impacting a company's bottom line.

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She brings her experience, expertise, and extensive network of experts to this podcast weekly, on Tuesdays.

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About the Podcast

Fraudology Podcast with Karisse Hendrick
Join Fraud Fighter Karisse Hendrick twice a week for deep dive interviews and weekly fraud news.
If you work in online fraud prevention, chances are you've caught the "bug". The bug that makes you passionate about identifying & preventing cybercriminals from getting away with stealing from your company, or your client's companies. Most people who have made cyber-fraud their career have the perfect balance of analytical and social skills, a strong sense of justice and the curiosity that will drive you to go down every path of information until you "crack the case".

Just like sociology is the study of social behavior, and psychology is the study of human behavior, Fraudology is the science and study of fraud.

On the Fraudology podcast, long-time online fraud expert, Karisse Hendrick will dive into all areas of Fraudology from the perspective of a fraud-fighter. With guests ranging from former cybercriminals to fraud-fighters at Fortune 500 companies to law enforcement and others, you will no doubt be entertained, while learning a lot about fraud & other forms of abuse prevention!

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Karisse Hendrick