Special Alert: SA2007015

Special Alerts

1st Financial Bank USA, Dakota Dunes, South Dakota, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit bank checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation. The counterfeit items are reportedly associated with a lottery scam.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 091404466, which is assigned to 1st Financial Bank USA, but are dissimilar to authentic items. The counterfeit items display the following security description embedded in the top border: "THIS DOCUMENT HAS A COLORED BACKGROUND AND MICROPRINTING. THE REVERSE SIDE INCLUDES AN ARTIFICIAL WATERMARK." The address "Main St Dupree, SD 57623" is displayed in the top-center area below the name "1St Financial Bank Usa."

Two versions of authentic checks are issued by the bank:

Version 1 is printed on blue marbled check stock with the following security description embedded in the top border: "SECURITY WARNING: THE FACE OF THIS DOCUMENT FEATURES A COLORED BACKGROUND AND MICROPRINT BORDERS - THE REVERSE SIDE FEATURES ARTIFICIAL WATERMARKS." Authentic checks have a microprinted border that says "DOCUGARD."

Version 2 is printed on blue and pink check stock with the following statement printed in the top border: "THE FACE OF THIS DOCUMENT HAS A COLORED BACKGROUND ON WHITE PAPER." A padlock symbol and a security notice are embedded vertically in the right border. The statement "THE BACK OF THIS DOCUMENT CONTAINS AN ARTIFICIAL WATERMARK - HOLD AT AN ANGLE TO VIEW" is embedded in the bottom border. This version has microprinted borders that read "PIRACLE."

Copies of a counterfeit item and the check stocks of the two versions of authentic checks (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

F. Mark Kennedy
Security Services Manager
1st Financial Bank USA
363 West Anchor Drive
Dakota Dunes, South Dakota 57049-2000
Phone: (605) 232-6753
Fax: (605) 232-6747
E-mail: mkennedy@1fbusa.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other counterfeit activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachments (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

Union Bank and Trust Company, Lincoln, Nebraska, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit cashier's checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 104910795, which is assigned to Union Bank and Trust Company. There are reportedly three versions of counterfeit items that are similar to authentic checks except for the border designs. In Version 1, the statements "THIS DOCUMENT HAS A GRADUATED BACKGROUND DARK TO LIGHT. THE REVERSE SIDE INCLUDES AN ARTIFICIAL WATERMARK" are embedded in the top border. Version 1 has no borders on the sides or bottom. Version 2 has ornate scroll borders on all four sides with no security feature statements in or around them. Version 3 has ornate spiral design borders along the top and sides, with the words "CASHIER'S CHECK" inside a rounded rectangular box embedded in the center of the top border. In Version 3, the statement "HOLD DOCUMENT UP TO THE LIGHT TO VIEW TRUE WATERMARK" is printed on each side of the rounded rectangular box just below the top border.

Authentic checks have ornate scroll borders on all four sides. The statement "THIS DOCUMENT HAS A MICRO-PRINT SIGNATURE LINE, WATERMARK, AND A THERMOCHROMIC ICON; ABSENCE OF THESE FEATURES WILL INDICATE A COPY" is printed just below the top border.

Copies of counterfeit items and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Heather Kadavy
Assistant Vice President Bank Security
Union Bank & Trust Company
Post Office Box 82535
Lincoln, Nebraska 68501-2535
Telephone: (402) 323-1111
Fax: (402) 323-1790
E-mail: heather.kadavy@ubt.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other counterfeit activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachments (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

Paragon National Bank, Memphis, Tennessee, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit cashier's checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 122000661, which is assigned to Bank of America, N.A., Richmond, Virginia, but are dissimilar to authentic cashier's checks. The counterfeit items display a security statement embedded within the top border. The bank's name and branch address ("5400 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38119") are displayed near the upper- left corner. The bank's name, the words "CASHIER'S CHECK," city, state and zip code appear near the upper-center portion. Two rectangular boxes containing the words "Date" and "Amount" are displayed on the right side.

Authentic checks display the routing number 084008947, which is assigned to Paragon National Bank. The bank's logo, name, post office box address ("P.O Box 2022"), city, state, zip code and a telephone number ("901-273-2900") are displayed in the top center. The words "Cashier's Check" are displayed above "Date" and "Branch" in the upper-right corner. A padlock security icon is displayed on the right side and "REMITTER" appears on the left side.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Chondrea Black
Credit and Compliance Vice-President
Paragon National Bank
P.O. Box 2022
Memphis, Tennessee 38101
Telephone: (901) 322-0752
Fax: (901) 333-0752
E-mail: chondrea.black@bankparagon.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

Town Center Bank, Frankfort, Illinois, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit cashier's checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 071926634, which is assigned to Town Center Bank, but are dissimilar to authentic checks. The counterfeit items display a security feature statement within the top border and a security padlock icon on the right side. The bank's logo; name, repeated twice; city; state; a toll-free telephone number, which is not associated with the bank ("1.888.416.7255"); and "Name of Payee" are printed in the top-left corner. "DRAWER: TOWN CENTER BANK" is shown in the top-right corner and "for TOWN CENTER BANK" is shown below the printed dollar amount line. Two signature lines with the title "SIGNING OFFICER" printed below each are in the lower-right corner. "REMITTER: FAMILY USA INC" is shown below the signature lines.

Authentic checks have an ornate border and are gray in color. The bank's logo and name appear near the top-left corner. To the right of the logo and name is the bank's address ("515 North LaGrange Road, Frankfort, IL 60423"). "DATE" and "PAY TO THE ORDER OF" are printed on the left side. "ACCOUNT NUMBER" and "AMOUNT" are printed on the right side. The checks have one signature line.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Eileen Pallisard-Brannan
Operations Officer
Town Center Bank
9700 West 197th Street
Mokena, Illinois 60448
Telephone: (708) 478-7741
Fax: (708) 478-3860
E-mail: e.pallisard@towncenterbank.net

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

Northmark Bank, North Andover, Massachusetts, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit cashier's checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation. The counterfeit items are reportedly associated with a secret shopper scam and are included with correspondence from The Apex Evaluation and Marketing Services supposedly based in Ontario, Canada.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 011302603, which is assigned to Northmark Bank, but are markedly dissimilar to authentic treasurer's checks. Northmark Bank issues treasurer's checks, not cashier's checks. The counterfeit items display the words "CASHIER'S CHECK" near the lower-left corner. The bank's name and address are in the top center. The bank's name is repeated above the signature line. "REMITTER:" is printed near the top-left corner.

Authentic treasurer's checks display a reflective foil security bar across the top of the check, and only the bank's name is printed in the top-center area. A security feature statement, printed in italics, is displayed directly below the written dollar amount line. The bank's name, city, state, zip code and the words "TREASURER'S CHECK" are displayed in the lower-left corner. A padlock icon and security statements are printed on the right side.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Robert Vachon
Chief Financial Officer
Northmark Bank
P. O. Box 825
89 Turnpike Street
North Andover, Massachusetts 01845
Telephone: (978) 686-9100
Fax: (978) 794-9557
E-mail: RVachon@northmarkbank.com

To report this scam or any other scam based in or mailed from Canada, please contact Phonebusters, which is a joint partnership between the Ontario Provincial Police and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Phonebusters is interested in receiving copies of scam letters, particularly those involving Canadian mailing addresses or telephone numbers. Records relating to the payment of advance fees should also be forwarded to Phonebusters. This information is used to assist in the strategic targeting of would-be fraudsters. Scam letters should be forwarded to the Phonebusters National Call Center (PNCC) as follows:

Mail: Box 686
North Bay, Ontario, Canada
P1B 8J8
Web site: http://www.phonebusters.com/
Telephone: +1 (888) 495-8501 (toll-free in Canada and the USA)
Fax: +1 (888) 654-9426 (toll-free in Canada and the USA)
E-mail: info@phonebusters.com
Advance fee fraud (including Nigerian and lottery letters): wafl@phonebusters.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

First National Bank of the Mid-Cities, Bedford, Texas, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit cashier's checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 111910267, which is assigned to First National Bank of the Mid-Cities, but are dissimilar to authentic checks. The counterfeit items display the bank's name, address ("4009 Airport Pkwy, Bedford, TX 76021") and the statement "VOID AFTER 120 DAYS" near the upper-left corner. The bank's name, address and a telephone number - "(817)-715-6367" - which is not associated with the bank, also appear near the upper-right corner.

Authentic checks have an ornate border. Only the bank's name appears in the top-center portion. The wording "CASHIER'S CHECK" is computer-generated and appears above the signature line. A padlock icon is placed between the statements "SECURITY FEATURES INCLUDED" and "DETAILS ON BACK," shown vertically within the right border.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Amanda Sharp
Personal Banker
First National Bank of the Mid-Cities
4009 Airport Freeway
Bedford, Texas 76021
Telephone: (817) 553-2522
Fax: (817) 553-2501
E-mail: amandas@fnbmidcities.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

Jefferson Bank of Missouri, Jefferson City, Missouri, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit cashier's checks bearing the institutionâ€^TMs name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 086501578, which is assigned to Jefferson Bank of Missouri. The items are similar to authentic cashier's checks, but display a security feature statement within the top border. In addition, the bank's name, an incorrect street address ("1910 Southwest Blvd."), city, state, zip code and a toll-free telephone number, which is not associated with the bank, appear in the top center of the counterfeit items.

Authentic checks have a gray heather colored background and an oval watermark in the middle containing the head of President Jefferson. The bank's name, street address ("2815 Truman Blvd."), city, state and zip code appear in the top center. "Operator ID:" is displayed in the top-left corner.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Penny Kleffner
Second Vice President
Jefferson Bank of Missouri
700 Southwest Boulevard
Jefferson City, Missouri 65101
Telephone: (573) 634-0826
Fax: (573) 634-0874
E-mail: Penny_Kleffner@jefferson-bank.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) of Canada has published the attached "Warning Notice" (Issue No. 76) regarding fake letters reflecting the name Banco Central del Ecuador. The Warning Notice, prompted by the Government of Ecuador, concerns fake "guarantees" or "proof of funds" letters that are circulating in international financial markets. For more information, contact the Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade at (613) 944-2071 or (613) 992-6292.

Each "Warning Notice," beginning with Issue No. 1 through OSFI's latest "Warning Notice," may be found at: http://www.osfi-bsif.gc.ca/osfi/index_e.aspx?ArticleID=166.

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov.

Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's Web site at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/specialalert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment: Can be found at http://www.osfi-bsif.gc.ca/app/DocRepository/1/eng/consumer/notices/Warning_Notice_76_e.pdf (PDF Help)

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

Pinnacle Bank, Lincoln, Nebraska, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit cashier's checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 104913912, which is assigned to Pinnacle Bank. The items are dissimilar to authentic cashier's checks and display the following security feature statement centered within the top border: "FOR SECURITY PURPOSES, THE FACE OF THIS DOCUMENT CONTAINS A COLOR BACKGROUND AND MICROPRINTING IN THE BORDER." The statements "SECURITY FEATURES INCLUDED. DETAILS ON BACK" are centered along the bottom border with a padlock icon printed on each side. The bank's logo, name, address, incorrect post office box ("P.O Box 170"), city, state and zip code appear in the top center. The counterfeit items are blue and have a "VOID" background when copied.

Authentic cashier's checks display the following security feature statements below the top border: "THIS DOCUMENT HAS SAFETY PAPER DESIGN, HIGH RESOLUTION BORDERS, WATER MARK, MICRO PRINT SIG LINE, AND THERMOCHROMIC ICON ON BACK. LOOK FOR THESE FEATURES." The statement "TWO SIGNATURES REQUIRED OVER $1000.00" is below the printed dollar amount line and "AN AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE" appears above each signature line. A security icon and statement are printed above the word "DOLLARS" on the right side. The checks have ornate borders and are yellow.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Bradley R. Vogel
Corporate Fraud Officer
Pinnacle Bancorp
20544 Husker Drive
P.O. Box 598
Gretna, Nebraska 68028-0598
Telephone: (402) 332-2114
Fax: (402) 332-0118
E-mail: bradley.vogel@pinnbank.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

The Citizens Bank, Batesville, Arkansas, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit cashier's checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 096016765, which is assigned to U.S. Bank, St. Paul, Minnesota. The Citizens Bank issues cashier's checks through a payable through account at U.S. Bank. The counterfeit items are very similar to authentic cashier's checks; however, the following security feature statement is embedded within a darkened top border: "THE FACE OF THIS DOCUMENT HAS A COLORED BACKGROUND ON WHITE PAPER AND ORIGINAL DOCUMENT SECURITY SCREEN ON BACK WITH PADLOCK SECURITY ICON." Vertically displayed in the right border is a security padlock icon and a security feature statement. The bottom border contains the following Web site address in blue print: "http://www.laserprinterchecks.com/."

Authentic cashier's checks display the following security feature statements below the top border: "THIS DOCUMENT HAS AN ARTIFICIAL WATERMARK PRINTED ON THE BACK. THE FRONT OF THE DOCUMENT HAS A MICRO-PRINT SIGNATURE LINE. ABSENCE OF THESE FEATURES WILL INDICATE A COPY."

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Tammy Poole
Senior Vice President
The Citizens Bank
P.O. Box 2156
Batesville, Arkansas 72503-2156
Telephone: (870) 698-6205
E-mail: tammyp@thecitizensbank.net

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

The American National Bank of Sidney, Sidney, Nebraska, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit money orders bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 104102202, which is assigned to The American National Bank of Sidney. The counterfeit items are dissimilar to authentic money orders and display a security feature statement within the top border and a "VOID" background when copied. The bank's logo, name (repeated twice), street address ("901 Tenth Ave"), city, state and a nine- digit zip code appear in the top-left corner. The words "DATE" and "AMOUNT" are inside of darkened boxes on the right side. The wording "NOT VALID FOR OVER $1,000.00" is printed below the word "DOLLARS" on the right side.

Authentic money orders have ornate borders and display the words "MONEY ORDER" inside a rectangle in the top center. "PERSONAL MONEY ORDER" is also displayed inside a rectangle in the lower-left corner. The bank's logo, name, post office box address ("P.O. Box 19"), city, state and a five-digit zip code appear in the top-left corner. A security feature statement is displayed below the "PAY TO THE ORDER OF" line and the wording "NOT VALID FOR OVER $1,000.00" is shown below the date line. "SIGNATURE OF BUYER" is displayed above two signature lines and "ADDRESS OF BUYER" is shown above a third line in the lower-right corner. Authentic money orders have a security padlock icon and statement on the right side below the dollar amount line.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Eileen Beeken
Cashier
The American National Bank of Sidney
P.O. Box 19
Sidney, Nebraska 69162
Telephone: (308) 254-5536
Fax: (308) 254-5547
E-mail: ebeeken@anbsidney.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

Muenster State Bank, Muenster, Texas, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit cashier's checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation. The counterfeit items are reportedly associated with a Canadian lottery scam.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 111920684, which is assigned to Muenster State Bank, and are similar to authentic cashier's checks. However, the counterfeit items display a security feature statement within the top and bottom borders and are blue. The counterfeit items also display an incorrect highway number ("32") and a toll-free telephone number ("1-877- 643-0660"), which is not associated with the bank, in the top center. The statement that appears below the written dollar amount line contains a typographical error. The word "MICRO" in the statement "THIS DOCUMENT HAS A MICRO PRINT SIGNATURE..." is shown as "MACRO."

Authentic checks have ornate borders and are yellow. The correct highway number ("82") and the bank's telephone number ("(940) 665-7903") and fax number ("(940) 665-7903") are displayed in the top center. A security padlock icon is displayed to the right of the word "DOLLARS" at the end of the written dollar amount line.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Kevin Sebade
Security Officer and Senior Vice President
Muenster State Bank
P.O. Box 100
Muenster, Texas 76252
Telephone: (940) 759-2257
Fax: (940) 759-2243
E-mail: msb@msbtx.com

Alternate Contact:

Jeannene Walterscheid
Vice President and Compliance Officer
Muenster State Bank
P.O. Box 100
Muenster, Texas 76252
Telephone: (940) 759-2257
Fax: (940) 759-2243
E-mail: msb@msbtx.com

To report this scam or any other scam based in or mailed from Canada, please contact Phonebusters, which is a joint partnership between the Ontario Provincial Police and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Phonebusters is interested in receiving copies of scam letters, particularly those involving Canadian mailing addresses or telephone numbers. Records relating to the payment of advance fees should also be forwarded to Phonebusters. This information is used to assist in the strategic targeting of would-be fraudsters. Scam letters should be forwarded to the Phonebusters National Call Center (PNCC) as follows:

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

Sentry Bank & Trust, Cheraw, South Carolina, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit official checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 021309379, which is invalid. The items are markedly dissimilar to authentic official checks. On the counterfeit items, the words "Serial Number" are printed below "OFFICIAL CHECK" near the top-right corner. The bank's name is printed in the top-left corner. "SENTRY BANK, N.A. - CHERAW, SC" and "PAYABLE THROUGH SENTRY BANK, N.A. CHERAW, SC" are printed in the lower-left corner. "VOID AFTER 60 DAYS" is in the lower-center area. The word "DATE" appears to the left of "PAY THIS AMOUNT" on the right side.

Authentic official checks display the routing number 253271987, which is assigned to Sentry Bank & Trust. The checks have ornate borders and contain security feature statements in the top and bottom borders. A crisscross-patterned thumb area appears in the top portion with "PATENT#" printed above and "TamperSafe" below. The bank's logo and name appear in the top-left corner. "ACCOUNT NUMBER" appears to the left of "PAY THIS AMOUNT" on the right side.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Michelle Stanley
Assistant Operations Manager and Assistant Controller
Sentry Bank & Trust
901 Chesterfield Highway
Cheraw, South Carolina 29520
Telephone: (843) 537-7656
Fax: (843) 537-4380
E-mail: mstanley@sentrybt.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

Sun West Bank, Las Vegas, Nevada, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that expense checks bearing the institution's name have been stolen.

The stolen expense checks are numbered from 21051 to 22250 and bear the account number 19000022. The checks display the routing number 122402010, which is assigned to Sun West Bank. These expense checks were stolen from a truck operated by a courier service.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Tina Peraza
Senior Vice President for Operations Administration
Sun West Bank
5830 West Flamingo Road
Las Vegas, Nevada 89103
Telephone: (702) 949-2213
Fax: (702) 949-2255
Cell: (702) 592-1001
E-mail: tperaza@swbnevada.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

First State Bank of Newcastle, Newcastle, Wyoming, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit cashier's checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 102301775, which is assigned to First State Bank of Newcastle, but are markedly dissimilar to authentic cashier's checks. The counterfeit items display a security feature statement within the top and bottom borders. A security padlock icon is embedded within the right border. The bank's name (repeated twice), location and a toll-free telephone number, "(888)-405-4070," which is not associated with the bank, appear in the top-left corner. The words "Cashier's Check" are printed directly below the bank's name. The numerical dollar amount is printed inside a darkened rectangle on the right side, and the bank's name is shown below the rectangle. The words "Authorized Officer" appear below the first signature line, and the word "Countersigned" appears below the second signature line. The word "Remitter" is printed in the lower-left corner. A "VOID" background appears when the counterfeit item is copied.

Authentic cashier's checks display the bank's name and logo (a steer's head printed between the words "FIRST" and "STATE" in the bank name), post office box, telephone number, "(307) 746-4411," and location in the top center. The words "CASHIER'S CHECK" appear near the lower-left corner. A security feature statement is displayed below the written dollar amount line. A security padlock icon and statement appear after the word "DOLLARS" at the right end of the written dollar amount line. The words "AUTHORIZED SIGNATURES" are printed above two signatures on the right side. The word "REMITTER" is in the top-left corner. Authentic checks are yellow.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Donna Bombeck
Compliance Officer
First State Bank of Newcastle
P.O. Box 910
Newcastle, Wyoming 82701
Telephone: (307) 746-4411
Fax: (307) 746-2936
E-mail: audit@fsbnewcastle.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F- 4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

MainSource Bank, Greensburg, Indiana, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit official checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 022000868, which is assigned to Citibank, N.A., Buffalo, NY. MainSource Bank issues official checks through an Integrated Payment Systems Inc. account held at Citibank, N.A. The items are dissimilar to authentic official checks. The counterfeit items display a "VOID" background when copied, and the following security feature statement is shown within a darkened top border: "FOR SECURITY PURPOSES, THE FACE OF THIS DOCUMENT CONTAINS A COLORED BACKGROUND AND MICROPRINTING IN THE ORDER." The statements "SECURITY FEATURES INCLUDED. DETAILS ON BACK" are centered along the bottom border between two padlock icons.

Authentic checks have three scroll borders on the top and sides. The words "OFFICIAL CHECK" are displayed inside of a rectangle with rounded corners in the top center. Displayed on each side of the rectangle is the following security feature statement: "HOLD DOCUMENT UP TO THE LIGHT TO VIEW TRUE WATERMARK." A security padlock icon and statement appear on the right side below the "DATE" line.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Michael T. Riley
Corporate Security Officer
MainSource Financial Group
201 North Broadway
Greensburg, Indiana 47240
Telephone: (812) 663-0132
Fax: (812) 662-3210
E-mail: mriley@mainsourcefinancial.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

The Merchants Bank, Burlington, Vermont, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit treasurer's checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 011600020, which is assigned to The Merchants Bank, but are dissimilar to authentic treasurer's checks. The counterfeit items have ornate side borders and the following security feature statement is embedded within the top border: "THIS CHECK IS VOID WITHOUT A RED AND GRAY BORDER AND BACKGROUND PLUS A KNIGHT & FINGERPRINT WATERMARK ON THE BACK - HOLD AT AN ANGLE TO VIEW." Along the bottom border is the statement "ABSENCE OF PINK U.S. PATENT NUMBERS UNDER SIGNATURE INDICATES CHECK IS FRAUDULENT, PATENT NUMBERS ARE PRINTED WITH HEAT SENSITIVE INK & WILL DISAPPEAR WHEN BLOWING OR RUBBING." A logo of a running lynx appears in the center of the bank's name with an apostrophe ("merchant's BANK") in the top-left corner. The items are light red and gray, and the quality of the paper stock is poor.

Authentic treasurer's checks display the following security feature statement below the top border: "THIS MULTI-TONE AREA OF THE DOCUMENT CHANGES COLOR GRADUALLY AND EVENLY FROM DARK TO LIGHT." The statement "THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT HAS A REFLECTIVE WATERMARK ON THE BACK. HOLD AT AN ANGLE TO VIEW" is embedded within a darkened bottom border. The bank's logo of a lynx head and its name without an apostrophe ("merchants BANK") appear in the top-left corner. The word "OFFICE" is displayed below the location of issuance near the center. The checks are light blue.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic treasurer's check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Gary W. Dean
Bank Security Act Officer
The Merchants Bank
P.O. Box 1009
Burlington, Vermont 05402
Telephone: (802) 865-1903
Fax: (802) 865-1912
E-mail: gdean@mbvt.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

Bank of Tennessee, Kingsport, Tennessee, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit official checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 044015543, which is assigned to Huntington National Bank, Columbus, Ohio. Bank of Tennessee issues official checks through Moneygram Payment Systems Inc., which uses a payable through account at Huntington National Bank. The counterfeit items are very similar to authentic official checks, except that they display the following security feature statement within the top border: "FOR SECURITY PURPOSES, THE FACE OF THIS DOCUMENT CONTAINS A COLOR BACKGROUND AND MICROPRINTING IN THE BORDER." The counterfeit items also display the statements "SECURITY FEATURES INCLUDED. DETAILS ON BACK," which are centered along the bottom border with a padlock icon printed on each side.

Authentic official checks are green and display the following security statements below the top border: "THIS DOCUMENT HAS AN ARTIFICIAL WATERMARK PRINTED ON THE BACK. ABSENCE OF THIS FEATURE WILL INDICATE A COPY." The bank's telephone number - "(423) 378-9500" - is printed below the bank's name and address in the top-left corner.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Cindy Larkin
Assistant Security Officer
Bank of Tennessee
P.O. Box 4980
Johnson City, Tennessee 37602
Telephone: (423) 279-3420
Fax: (423) 279-3424
E-mail: clarkin@bankoftennessee.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)