TJX's Computer Data Hacked
In January 2007, TJX Cos., a discount retailer that operates T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods and A.J. Wright stores, reported that computers that handle customer transactions at a number of its chains were broken into. An intruder may have accessed U.S., Canadian and Puerto Rican transactions during 2003, as well as transactions for mid-May through December 2006. Consequently, a West Virginia woman was advised by her bank that her debit card had been “compromised” when a hacker broke into TJX computers. The woman sued the company claiming that the computer breach at the company exposed her to the risk of fraud and identity theft.
The complaint alleges that “[t]his action arises from TJX's failure to maintain adequate computer data security of customer credit and debit card data, which was accessed and stolen by the computer hacker.” The complaint further claims that TJX was negligent in failing to have adequate security in place to safeguard customers' private financial information and that the retailer failed to tell customers of the security breach as soon as it was discovered. The suit seeks unspecified damages of more than $5 million and certification as a class action on behalf of all people in the U.S. whose personal or financial information was stolen from TJX's computer system.
If you believe you were harmed by this or any similar computer security breach and would like to discuss your option, please contact our consumer fraud attorneys.