Top state attorneys scrutinize Target data breach
The retail chain talks with several state attorneys general about its investigation into the massive security breach and confirms it's working with the US Secret Service and the Justice Department.
Several attorneys general are investigating Target's massive data security breach and discussed the matter with the retailer on Monday.
In addition to talking with state attorneys, Target also said it is working with federal agencies to investigate the data breach: "We can confirm that we are actively partnering with the United States Secret Service and the Department of Justice on the ongoing investigation into the malware that affected Target's point-of-sale system in our U.S. stores. Due to the nature of the investigation, the Secret Service has asked not to share many of the details of the forensics and investigation."
It's no surprise that Target has received a "high volume" of calls over the recent theft of in-store credit card information. The stolen information has already showed up on the black market. The company said in a blog post that it's communicated with 17 million guests via e-mail.
"Unless they have seen fraudulent activity on their account, there is no urgent need to call," Target wrote in the post.
The Wall Street Journal reported that Monday's call with several attorneys general lasted 30 minutes and another call is scheduled for the after the New Year.
"We felt it was important to bring this group together to provide them with information about the issue and answer their questions," said a Target spokeswoman, according to the Journal, in an e-mail. "We are committed to keeping the attorneys general informed as the ongoing investigation moves forward."
Target has been actively referring customers who fear identity theft to report their cases to their state attorney general's office.