Good question Tina! The credit card companies are VERY on top of theft in generally and while they may not contact you directly, they often stop all charges cold if they suspect fraud. But be sure to check your statement as well!
Tina, thank you for sharing that information. I'm sure most companies are taking extra steps with this situation.
Nicole, they would not have your bank information, only the Target REDCard information. Changing the REDCard out would solve your problem.
Bob: Early reports appear to indicate that malware (malicious software) was installed on the computers in the stores. Usually via tricking an employee within Target to click and open something.
Chris, I am sure that Target is getting a lot of phone calls at this time. Please continue to try calling them to get that Target card changed. If you still cannot get through, you would need to discuss with your bank about the situation and get advice from them.
Don't worry yet Karen! Target is likely flooded with calls for help. You can safely wait for your credit card statement to come and check for any problems. Glad to hear you are being dilligent!
Great news Jennifer! The breach is supposedly fixed/resolved. However... there have been several highly publicized cases where breaches have hypothetically been closed only to find out that more breaches occured.
Duffy: It likely would NOT be extra purchases at Target... it likely will be odd purchases elsewhere that you didn't make. Be sure to look for any charges that look suspicious or that you know you didn't purchase.
Jan, if you used your card at a Target store in the affected period, November 27 through December 15, you are vulnerable, even if you have paid off your debts. Make sure to pay attention to your statements for any unexpected charges.
Colleen... or go online to check it. Generally you are safe if you check your statements this month and ALWAYS. But you can always be more cautious.
Gail: I suspect they are flooded. Not just Target but the credit card companies. Be sure to check your statements and you should be fine. There is nothing pressing that needs to be done today. Great question...
Nicole, changing your pin will not protect you properly. It is possible to use a credit card number and CCV number online without needing a pin. You will need to get a new credit card number to ensure they cannot use your information.
Margo: You should be fine, however (1) Always check your sttements carefully and (2) if you want to be extra cautious and cancel, I would never discourage being overly safe.
Barb: It's not just Target cards unfortunately. It's all cards. Changing the pin is not always sufficient. Just keep an eye on your statements and as always... be cautious.
Bri: November 27 through December 15.
Bri, it affected all 50 states, all stores in the United States.
Peggy: Only a concern IF you used it IN a store between Nov 27 and December 15. Always check your statements carefully as well.
Interesting question Laurie... generally your only concern is the credit card theft, however... there IS a lot of personal information stored on your credit card that hypothetically COULD help someone steal your identity.
Nicole, This damage affected all of the Target stores in the United States. it does not affect any purchases made online, nor will it affect stores in Canada.
NOTE: David Parizek from InfoStream is also answering your questions.
Elizabeth: ALL cards used at a physical Target store are potentially compromised.
If you used your credit/debit card at the store, you need to pay attention to your statements, even if you have already paid off the charges in full. They still have the information on your account.
Unfortunately yes Tony. Any card used AT the store is at risk. Just keep an eye out on your charges.
Great question Rob. Your credit score should not be effected as long as you notify the credit card company timely. They will reverse the charges.
Changing Pin Numbers is never a bad thing. However, this would not be the only step you need to take. It is possible to use the credit card number and CCV number online without needing a pin. You should discuss with your bank getting a new card number.
Thank you Larry. Unfortunately, Credit Card theft is a major and regular issue companies have to battle on a daily basis.
Brandy... I always recommend being extra cautious with your financial and personal information, however, you should be ok as long as you keep an eye on things.
Nancy, if you cancel the debit card you used at Target and get a new one, that will protect you. They cannot get new information using the credit card, only use the existing information to get money from the account. If you disable that debit card, you prevent that access.
Erica: Just keep checking. It can be months before theifs try to use the card. Keep an eye out!
Jo: Possibly. However, the debit card companies should reverse and recredit the money as long as you report the false charge timely.
Your credit card company or the bank of your debit card will protect you. By law you are only responsible for $50.00 in a fraud situation. However, most banks and credit card companies will protect you and refund the full amount.
Jeff: The breach affects ANY cards used at a physical Target store. Regardless of the brand.