Those who shopped at Target between Black Friday and Dec. 15 are being encouraged to check their debit and credit card history for any abnormal purchases.
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Officials with the Target Corporation announced on Thursday that they were aware of unauthorized access to the company’s payment card data.
As many as 40 million credit and debit card accounts could have been impacted nationwide, a press release said.
Target had previously reported a successful Black Friday weekend for brick and mortar locations and Target.com alike.
There are two Target locations in the Santa Clarita Valley, on Magic Mountain Parkway and Golden Valley Road.
Target was one of the major retailers in the SCV that opened early for Black Friday–8 p.m. on Thanksgiving until 11 p.m. on Friday.
Related Article: Black Friday Enthusiasts Started Lining Up On Sunday
Target’s President, Chairman and CEO Gregg Steinhafel said in a statement that Target is working to address the issue.
“We regret any inconvenience this may cause,” he said. “We take this matter very seriously and are working with law enforcement to bring those responsible to justice.”
The incident serves as a reminder for holiday shoppers to take extra caution during this busy time.
Related Article: Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station Shares Holiday Shopping Safety Tips
On Nov. 30, the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station released several tips on how to shop safely:
- Expect to encounter crowds and long lines. When shopping with your children, especially younger children, snap a photo of each one with your smart phone before heading out. If your child becomes separated from you, you will have a current photo and an accurate clothing description to provide to store security and law enforcement.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Do not purchase items from non-licenses solicitors in parking lots.
- Make sure valuable items are not left in plain sight in vehicles.
- Report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. If you see something, say something.
- Practice patience. Long lines can lead to short tempers. Expect to encounter possibly frustrating delays on major shopping days.
- Never leave your purse, wallet, cell phone, or shopping cart unattended.
- Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
- Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, con-artists may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.
- Commit random acts of kindness, and do whatever you know is right.
Those who believe they may be a victim of the Target fraud, can contact the Target Transactions Department at 866-852-8680.
For more information, click here.
Do you have a news tip? Call us at (661) 298-1220, or drop us a line at community@hometownstation.com.
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