The Idaho Department of Finance (IDOF) is warning consumers against “Pig Butchering” scams that have recently targeted Idahoans. Pig butchering scams are unique because they are long-term schemes that combine elements of investment scams, romance/friendship scams, and cryptocurrency transactions to steal all the money an individual possesses or can access (i.e., persuading individuals to take out loans in addition to sending money from their bank accounts).

Home improvement projects can be
complex and may involve long-term financial commitments. Taking proactive steps, such as researching financing
options and their implications, and becoming familiar with other important considerations, can help homeowners
make more informed decisions and avoid common pain points associated with financing home improvements.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Patricia “Patti” Perkins for her many years of dedicated service to the Idaho Department of Finance. Appointed by Governor Brad Little as Director in January 2020, Patti brought exceptional leadership and vision to the Department.

The Idaho Department of Finance (Department), with the cooperation of Trust and Estate Services Company of Idaho d/b/a TrESCo of Idaho (TrESCo), issued a Consent Order requiring TrESCo to comply with the statutory requirements of the Idaho Trust Institutions Act and no longer engage in unauthorized trust activity in Idaho. TrESCo agreed to either obtain a trust charter from the Department or remove itself as trustee or agent for all accounts that constitute unauthorized trust activity.