Target's latest security breach has affected 70 million consumers, an increase from a previously reported 40 million according to information from Target on their website Friday.
"I know that it is frustrating for our guests to learn that this information was taken and we are truly sorry they are having to endure this," said Target CEO Gregg Steinhafel said in a statement. "Our guests expect more from us and deserve better. And I want them to know that understanding and sharing the facts is important to me and the entire Target team."
Forty million credit and debit account numbers were taken from Target customers between Nov. 27, and Dec. 15, and were reportedly being used on new plastics Krebs On Security reported.
The incident spanned the country in Target stores, and not online, and could have involved thieves fiddling with the machines customers utilize to slide their cards through while purchasing merchandise Bloomberg Businessweek reported.
An update from Target's website Dec. 20 said no pin information is believed to be obtained according to CNN Money. The security code on the cards plastic sticker near the card owner's signature on the underside of the card are also considered to be safe. The same is true for card user's social dates of birth, and social security number. Pins were then found to be taken, but not accessible Bloomberg reported.
Target gave a 10 percent discount to the customers affected by the crisis ABC News reported. The retailer announced it will take full responsibility for charges that come from the incidents Target said on its website. Affected customers will also get a year's worth of credit monitoring and identity theft protection to all consumers who purchased items from Target stores during the breach Target reported..
The retailer also warned about a fake e-mail scam, reminding customers that all official e-mails from Target corporate communications are posted on the company's website The Boston Globe reported.
