Huge data loss at TJX

Wireless system was exploited

[grandpa]

If you have used a card at T.J. Maxx or Marshall's since 2005, get a new card, a new drivers license and a new name.

The data loss at TJX isn't new news. What makes it worth mentioning is the scope of the loss, and they admit they may never know the full scope.

At least 45.7 million credit and debit card numbers from customers in the United States, Britain and Canada were stolen over a period of several years from the computers of TJX, the discount retail giant disclosed in a regulatory filing this week.

Apparently the thieves were able to tap into the wireless system that is used for POS card verification.

Based on the firm's investigation, the intrusion occurred in July 2005, on subsequent dates in 2005 and from mid-May 2006 to mid-January 2007. No customer data was stolen after Dec. 18, 2006.

Ouch!

Some of the data thieves have been tracked down and arrested in Florida. Now I'm wondering about every transaction I've had in Florida, particularly since it seems like there has been a slight surge over the past few months.

[simey]

Just in the area I live, recently voters info. has been stolen/lost, college records have been stolen, etc.

I predict by 2010, half the people will have some info of theirs stolen. All you can do is monitor your financial statements, etc.

but its a losing battle when the people you intrust your information to, could'nt care less about it...

[mcavic]

the wireless system that is used for POS card verification

They should be banned from ever accepting credit cards again.