By Gary Lloyd
TRUSSVILLE — The Michaels Stores Inc. data breach that impacted three million customers nationwide included the Trussville location on U.S. Highway 11, according to the Birmingham Business Journal.
Michaels released information about the specific locations and dates of exposure of the data breach last week.
At the Trussville store, affected dates were May 8 through Aug. 10, Aug. 13 through Oct. 8, Oct. 17 through Nov. 24, and Dec. 12 through Jan. 19, 2014, according to the BBJ.
A letter from Michaels Stores Inc. CEO Chuck Rubin states that the company has continued its “extensive investigation” with the help of two independent, expert security firms since January.
“We have also been working closely with law enforcement authorities and coordinating with banks and payment processors to determine the facts,” Rubin said.
After weeks of analysis, the company discovered evidence confirming that systems of Michaels stores in the United States and its subsidiary, Aaron Brothers, were attacked by criminals using highly sophisticated malware that had not been encountered previously by either of the security firms, Rubin said.
Rubin said the company has identified and fully contained the incident, and the malware no longer presents a threat to customers at Michaels or Aaron Brothers.
“We are truly sorry and deeply regret any inconvenience this may cause,” Rubin said. “Our customers are always our No. 1 priority and we are committed to retaining your trust and loyalty.”
The company is offering identity protection and credit monitoring services to affected customers in the U.S. for 12 months at no cost.
Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune.com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd.
