Deter • Detect • Defend: Fight Back Against Identity Theft

Each year, millions of Americans have their identity stolen. Skilled identity thieves use a variety of methods to steal your personal information. Follow these tips to help you fight financial crimes:

• Shred financial documents and paperwork with personal information before you discard them.

• Protect your Social Security number. Don't carry your Social Security card in your wallet or write your Social Security number on a check. Give it out only if absolutely necessary or ask to use another identifier.

• Don't give out personal information on the phone, through the mail, or over the Internet unless you know who you are dealing with.

• Never click on links sent in unsolicited emails; instead, type in a web address you know. Use firewalls, anti-spyware, and anti-virus software to protect your home computer; keep them up-to-date.

• Don't use an obvious password like your birth date, your mother's maiden name, or the last four digits of your Social Security number.

• Keep your personal information in a secure place at home, especially if you have roommates, employ outside help, or are having work done in your house.

Great Northern Bank is doing whatever it takes for your information to be secure. Please let us know if you need more help in securing your financial records and other confidential information.

For more information on how to protect yourself from identity theft, visit the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) www.consumer.gov/idtheft or toll free at 877-FTC-HELP.

Adapted from the Federal Trade Commission website