Right on Target
Have you received an email recently notifying you of a Target data breach and offering you 1 year of credit monitoring? It claimed to be sent by Target and provided both a link to sign up online and a phone number to call. It was even signed, “Gregg Steinhafel Chairman, President and CEO”.
With the crooks sending phishing messages by the barrel, this one looked as fraudulent as they come.
If you disregarded this message, I am not surprised.
If you called the number or followed the link, it was imprudent and could have left you a victim of identity theft.
However, if you went directly to Target.com, you would have discovered that they do indeed offer support to breach victims and provide a phone number to call and a link to follow. The offer expires in slightly more than a month, so, if you shop at Target, you may want to take them up on their offer soon.
With the recent flood of breaches, it is very likely that your favorite shop will be attacked. If you read about it, or hear or get a notification, take a deep breath and then go straight to the source for information. If you keep your cool, you can take care of your problems and not be trapped by fraudsters.
Danger of using cards to pay for taxis
Over the years more and more places were subverted by scammers stealing debit and credit card information. We received warnings from our banks, favorite shopping venues, eateries and gas stations.
However, you probably thought that paying with your card for a taxi ride was safe. Not anymore. Chicago bank warns both guests and locals to pay cash, because of a breach that affects lots of taxis in that beautiful city.
If you have paid for a cab ride with your card recently, I hope it was a credit card that you can quickly replace with a different account. If you used your debit card, talk to your bank and make sure you switch to a credit card or cash for all your purchases. If you are not sure why, read my report on protecting your money.