Dec. 19th 2013 - Target Stores -Important Notice 40 Million Credit Cards data stolen

Target says that about 40 million credit and debit card accounts may have been affected by a data breach that occurred just as the holiday shopping season shifted into high gear.

The chain said that accounts of customers who made purchases by swiping their cards at terminals in its U.S. stores between Nov. 27th and Dec. 15th 2013, may have been exposed.

The stolen data includes customer names, credit and debit card numbers, card expiration dates and the three-digit security codes located on the backs of cards. The data breach did not affect online purchases.

The Minneapolis company said it immediately told authorities and financial institutions once it became aware of the breach and that it is teaming with a third-party forensics firm to investigate the matter and prevent future breaches. It said it is putting all “appropriate resources” toward the issue.

Target Corp. advised customers to check their statements carefully. Those who suspect there has been unauthorized activity on their cards should report it to their credit card companies and call Target at 866-852-8680. Cases of identity theft can also be reported to law enforcement or the Federal Trade Commission.

* The Washington Post 12/19/13

Please access the Target Stores Corporation link below for specific details on states that have laws requiring businesses to notify consumers when a "data breach" has occurred.

Michigan Law: IDENTITY THEFT PROTECTION ACT (EXCERPT)
Act 452 of 2004  445.72 Notice of security breach; requirements.

MI's Law - Identity Theft Protection Act, Notice of security breach

Target Corporation - Data Breach Press Release