Idaho First Bank News

FDIC Extends Insurance Coverage

On May 20, 2009, President Barack Obama signed the Helping Families Save Their Homes Act, which extends the temporary increase in the standard maximum deposit insurance amount (SMDIA) to $250,000 per depositor through December 31, 2013.

This extension of the temporary $250,000 coverage limit became effective immediately upon the President's signature. The legislation provides that the SMDIA will return to $100,000 on January 1, 2014.

For more information contact the FDIC Call Center at 1-877-275-3342 or Idaho First Bank at 208-634-1000.

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News Release: From Greg Lovell, President and CEO RE: Idaho First Bank and Phishing Attack

McCall, Idaho, January 30, 2009 – Idaho First Bank and residents of Valley County appear to have undergone a serious “Phishing” attack beginning Saturday, January 24, 2009. This attack included both pre-recorded telephone messages and email that requested the contacted party provide certain identifying information which may have allowed the criminals to access individuals’ accounts. The attack was not limited to customers of Idaho First Bank but to many residents of Valley County. “We have had contact with people as far away as Tennessee call us to report this activity.” stated Greg Lovell, President and CEO of the Bank.

It is noted that there was no breach of any bank systems during this attack. “The security of our clients’ financial information is foremost in our minds. We did not have any type of breach or hacking into our systems.” according to Don Madsen, the Bank’s Chief Financial Officer. “We employ multiple layers of defense to protect our confidential information.”

Lovell commented on the hard work completed by the Bank’s IT security staff, the State of Idaho Department of Finance, and law enforcement agencies. “Upon hearing of this attack, the Bank activated its response plan. We have taken down the internet sites that generated these attacks. We have provided the information to the law enforcement authorities to aid them in their investigation of this occurrence.”

This is not the first instance of “phishing” in Idaho. Just last week it was reported that another bank with branches in Idaho was subject to a “phishing” attack targeting cell phone users via text messaging.

Email and Web site fraud is often referred to as “phishing,” “carding,” or “spoofing.” Phishing is a criminal sending you an email request that appears to be from a business with which you normally deal with–for example, the Bank, an Internet service provider (ISP), or online payment service. These emails instruct you to “update” or “validate” your information, including account information, Social Security number, passwords and other sensitive information via email, or by directing you to a phony Web site that looks like the legitimate business.

By complying with the email instructions, you unknowingly provide this information–not to a legitimate company–but to the thief.

The information is then used to transfer money, make payments, and commit other illegal acts. Email scams may also carry worms or viruses that can further harm you by dropping potentially damaging viruses onto your computer system.

The Bank encourages all consumers to be aware of the many methods used to illegally gain their sensitive information. As with most banks, Idaho First Bank will never ask for sensitive identification information over the phone or in an email. Clients are encouraged to call the Bank if they have any concerns over a call or email that says it comes from the Bank.

“Our clients are the best line of defensive in situations like this.” says Lovell, “They are the first to get a call or email that may make them uneasy. They can take the easy step of just saying no, hanging up or logging off and calling us. We appreciate their help in protecting their information.”

Contacts: Greg Lovell, President and CEO at 208-630-2001, or Don Madsen, CFO at 208-947-0430.

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Idaho First Bank Opens its Office in Downtown Boise

Boise, Idaho, March 6, 2008 – Today, Idaho First Bank announced the opening of its new commercial, professional and small business lending office situated in the heart of downtown Boise. The Bank was previously located on Tarpon Drive in Meridian.

The Bank’s new 6,800 square foot space is on the top floor of the historic C.W. Moore Building located at 250 S. 5th Street, Suite 800. This new location allows Idaho First Bank to continue the expansion of its footprint into small business and professional banking consistent with its community banking philosophy.

This move is not unexpected due to Idaho First Bank’s recent appointment of Don Waniata as the Company’s Boise President. In his role, Don will drive the Bank’s Business & Professional Banking focus and manage operations. He will also partner with CEO, Greg Lovell, to manage the Bank’s continuous growth.

“We are excited to expand into the Boise market, our new downtown location will serve as a great venue for building and enhancing our business banking relationships,“ said Waniata.

On March 19th the Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce and Idaho First Bank will host a grand opening ceremony open to the public at 10:00 am. Please contact Pam Dell at (208) 472-5214 or the Bank at (208) 947-0424 for more information.

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Stephanie Wallace to Lead Cash Management Services at Idaho First Bank

McCall, Idaho, Oct. 15, 2007 – Idaho First Bank welcomes Stephanie Wallace as their new Business Services and Development Director. She will oversee the Bank’s Cash Management Services for business, as well as Online Banking Services for consumers.

Idaho First Bank offers several Cash Management Services geared toward its business customers such as Courier Service, Online Business Banking, Direct Deposit, Remote Capture (SKIP), and Merchant Bank Card Services.

With over six years of banking experience, Stephanie has specialized in Cash Management and Business Services for the last three years.

“I enjoy identifying ways for our business customers to streamline processes by providing them with efficient banking solutions,” she said. “It means a great deal to me to be able to make banking more personal for businesses in our community through customized banking solutions.”

“Stephanie offers personalized service, is knowledgeable about our Cash Management product offerings and is a valuable resource for all of our customers,” said Greg Lovell President and CEO of Idaho First Bank. “We are honored to have her as the newest addition to our McCall team. Stop in and meet her today to find out how she can help make your business more efficient.”

Prior to joining Idaho First Bank, Stephanie worked in Boise as a Bank Services Associate. “I am happy to be back in my home town working in this community,” she said.

In addition to her work at the Bank, Stephanie is furthering her education at the American Institute of Banking.

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Idaho First Bank Appoints New Loan Officer

August 6, 2007—Idaho First Bank recently hired Francine Redding as a loan officer in their commercial/residential lending office in Meridian, Idaho. Francine has been in mortgage lending full time for 11 years specializing in FHA/VA loans, conforming & nonconforming loans.

Francine works with her clients from loan origination through closing, “I am committed to serving all of my clients’ financial needs,” she explained. “It is exciting to work at Idaho First Bank and be a part of the company’s growth in the community.”

“We are very happy to have Francine at Idaho First Bank. She brings rich experience and is a valuable addition to our team,” said Greg Lovell, President and CEO of Idaho First Bank. “With her strong customer service skills and her extensive industry knowledge, she will undoubtedly be an asset as we expand our reach in the Boise and McCall communities.”

Most recently, Francine worked at The Mortgage Place as a senior loan officer and prior to that she worked in a variety of roles within both the mortgage and consumer lending industries.

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Idaho First Bank Appoints New Operations Manager

McCall, Idaho, June 29, 2007 - Idaho First Bank announced today the appointment of Dorothy Pease as their new Operations Manager.

Starting her career in banking as a teller over 30 years ago, Dorothy brings extensive experience in the financial services industry to this new role. Pease has held numerous positions within large banks and savings and loan institutions and most recently served as Operations Supervisor.

“Idaho First Bank understands the importance of commitment to the McCall community,” said Pease. “I look forward to this new challenge and the opportunity to enhance the operations group to better serve our customers.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Dorothy to our growing team,” stated Greg Lovell, President and CEO of Idaho First Bank. “With such an accomplished banking background, she will be instrumental in streamlining our operations department and boosting overall efficiency throughout the organization.”

Pease currently resides in McCall with her husband, Richard.

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