Government officials call identity fraud and theft the fastest growing crime in the nation.

In addition to forging checks and documents, thieves will also attempt to obtain personal information such as social security numbers, driver's license numbers, credit card numbers, and even birth certificates. With this information, the thieves will open accounts in the victim's name for credit cards and loans with the mail diverted to a different address. It could take you months or years to learn that you are a victim.

First National Bank offers you a way to help protect yourself from these crimes.

By regularly checking your credit report, you may be able to detect some unlawful activity. You can get a free credit report, once a year, from these consumer reporting companies.

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