Massive Data Breach Exposes Credit Card Information of 1.7 Million People
Sensitive data such as names, addresses, and credit card details have been compromised.
Protecting your credit card information from cybercriminals just became more challenging due to a significant data breach involving a payment gateway provider that has impacted nearly 1.7 million people.
According to BleepingComputer, this breach is the latest in a series of attacks where sensitive financial information is stolen through no fault of the consumer. In this instance, hackers gained unauthorized access to the network of Slim CD, a payment processor for both online and offline merchants. Unfortunately, this means that both online shoppers and brick-and-mortar store customers may have had their details compromised.
What makes this breach particularly alarming is that the attackers had access to Slim CD’s systems for almost a year before being detected. Though the breach lasted that long, it appears that the actual theft of credit card data occurred over a narrow period from June 14 to June 15 of this year, highlighting just how quickly cybercriminals can strike once they have access.
If you’re one of the nearly 1.7 million individuals affected, it’s crucial to monitor your financial accounts closely for any suspicious activity. Consider freezing your credit reports or setting up fraud alerts with your credit card companies to prevent any further misuse of your personal information. Additionally, changing any passwords associated with your financial services and enabling two-factor authentication where possible can offer another layer of protection.
This incident highlights the growing threat of cyberattacks targeting financial services and payment gateways, emphasizing the need for stronger security measures across the board. As data breaches become increasingly common, it’s important for consumers to stay vigilant and proactive in protecting their sensitive information.
