Hackers Assault TJX Computer Systems

TJX Co., operator of T.J. Max and Marshalls' discount stores reported on January 17, 2007 that hackers intruded their computer networks late in 2006 and stole customer data. The company, however, does not know how far the damage occurred and how many customers it affected. The company stores data of credit and debit cards on its computers. It also checks and handles return transactions.

Ben Cammarata, chairman of TJX assured in a company's press release that the company immediately reported to law enforcement officials who had started an investigation. The company had also sought the help of two very efficient computer security experts to strengthen their systems' security just to prevent repetition in the future. It therefore believes customers would be safe while shopping in their stores.

Cammarata further said while a lot still waits to be done, they are yet to assess the issue further. He said the company had taken necessary steps to protect customers' confidential information. To that effect it was utilizing the services of law enforcement agencies in the U.S., Canada and the U.K. to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

The retailing company said while it was working closely with law enforcement authorities it was also cooperating with card issuers. Although the company discovered the breach in mid-December last it announced only now as per request of the law enforcement officials.

The hackers attacked in T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods and A.J. Wright stores situated in the U.S., and Puerto Rico and its Winners and HomeSense stores situated in Canada. Aside this intrusion may also be in systems of T.K. Maxx Stores in Britain and Ireland and may stretch to its Bob's Stores in the United States.

It is possible the intruder accessed U.S., Canadian and Puerto Rican merchandise during 2003 as well as transactions during mid-May to December 2006.

The company was able to identify a batch of cardholders whose data were transferred, which it notified to the concerned customers. It also found some driving license information stolen.

TJX has advised its customers to check their credit card records and contact the company for any additional information.

Related article: Hackers Redirect Windows Live Search to Malicious Sites

» SPAMfighter News - 1/23/2007