On Friday, Scambook, a web-based complaint resolution platform, issued a fraud advisory to consumers who used a credit or debit card at US Target stores between late November and the middle of December.
As the media has incessantly reported this week, consumers that shopped at Target during this time frame may be at increased risk of fraudulent charges and identity theft.
Target announced Thursday that hackers have stolen the names, credit and debit card numbers, expiration dates and three-digit CVV security codes from an estimated 40 million U.S. Target customers. The incident did not affect customers who shopped on Target.com or Target stores outside of the United States.
“Target has identified and resolved the weakness in their security system that lead to this hacking, and they’re reportedly working with law enforcement to investigate the incident,” says Kase Chong, Scambook’s Director of Marketing. “However, this is still a serious concern for customers who used a credit card or debit card at Target stores during the November 27 to December 15 window, which includes Black Friday weekend.”
Scambook is advising that Target customers affected by this recent hacking do the following:
- Check all accounts immediately for unauthorized charges.
- Continue monitoring accounts and credit card statements, and enable SMS or email alerts.
- Request a free consumer credit report by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com or call 1-877-322-8228.
“Scambook also wants to remind consumers that a breach of user information does not necessarily result in fraudulent account activity,” today’s announcement reads. “However, it is better to exercise caution and vigilance in monitoring accounts and reviewing billing statements.”
