Buying a house is a significant life decision, and the process can feel overwhelming. This week the Idaho Department of Finance is providing resources to help first-time homebuyers in Idaho navigate the journey with confidence.

The Idaho Department of Finance (IDOF) is pleased to recognize the month of December as Identity Theft Prevention and Awareness Month. Identity theft is defined as a crime where a consumer’s personal or financial information is illegally obtained to commit fraud.

The Idaho Department of Finance (IDOF) is warning the public against scams that involve the physical purchase and delivery of gold and other precious metals. Illicit actors trick victims into believing that either their identity, computer, or financial account(s) have been compromised.

Patricia Perkins, Director of the Idaho Department of Finance, is warning consumers to look closely at incoming mail that may appear to be correspondence from regulated consumer lenders but are really third-party advertisements or even scams.