Quick question about Christmas Gift for Teen

[dmaeK]

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone.

My 13 year old son has requested custom dog tags for Christmas. DH was in the military and carries his on his keys. They include his social and blood type plus type of service.

There are all kinds of online places that make custom dog tags but I am uncomfortable puting his social security number. I think that it is just asking for an identity theft issue down the road. DS wants them to look authentic (Hello, you are 13 and everyone knows you are not military!!).

I know he does not want some type of knick name. Maybe make a typo on social?? Any thoughts are appreciated.

PS - I promise to only post once. Been laying low all week. I hope eveyone has a great Thanksgiving and happy Black Friday shopping.

 

[abc123gal]

i always see a lot of "kiosks" (spelling questionable!) in the mall during the holidays selling jewelry, and gift items that they engrave right there in the mall, you might check in on those... (we have to use these pilgrims a lot in the next 24 hours before thanksgiving is over )

 

[Hifiman]

Fake info

Get him the dog tags, but if he must have a social security number just transpose a few numbers.

 

[MrsM]

numbers

I'd be uncomfortable with only transposing a couple of the numbers - can you create a 9-digit number that is meaningful? Such as combining his birthdate with graduation year and how many siblings he has? Let him know that there is real risk in having the real number on there, and as his mother you simply cannot put his social security number on something. No discussion. Once he understands this (the other option is no dog tags) have him help you decide which numbers to use.

 

[dmaeK]

Good Idea MrsM

The only reason I asked about the dog tags is because he had given me his Christmas list and it was quite extensive so I asked him to rewrite it and prioritize the items. Dog tags were right up there close to the top. I like the idea of him chosing meaningful numbers. He even wants his blood type on them like the real ones. Thanks for the input.

 

[yesteach]

Text it

One of the things we use with passwords is to "text" our password... example 72779673 would be the word "password." Instead of his social, pick a nine letter phrase and then use the text numbers.

Maybe "we love you" since it's from you and dad? 935-68-3968 would look like a ss# and would be a constant affirmation that's always with him

 

[MrsM]

yesteach

I like your idea too, yesteach!