Fast-fashion giant exploring data breach
Forever 21 is investigating whether it has become the newest victim of a cyber-attack.
The fast-fashion retailer learned from a third party that hackers may have gotten unauthorized access to payment card data at certain Forever 21 stores. Upon hearing the update, the retailer immediately launched an investigation of its payment card systems and engaged a leading security and forensics firm to assist.
Forever 21 implemented encryption and tokenization solutions in 2015, a move that left only certain point-of-sale devices in some Forever 21 stores vulnerable when encryption support went offline. The company's investigation is focused on card transactions that occurred in stores between March and October 2017.
Since the investigation is ongoing, the retailer said it is too early to reveal specific details. However, Forever 21 expects to provide additional updates once specific stores and timeframes are revealed, according to the company.
“We regret that this incident occurred and apologize for any inconvenience,” the company said. “We will continue to work to address this matter.”
The fast-fashion retailer also urged customers to closely monitor their payment card statements. If customers notice an unauthorized charge, they are encouraged to immediately notify the bank that issued the card, there retailer said.
Based on payment card network rules, cardholders are typically not responsible for such charges.
The fast-fashion retailer learned from a third party that hackers may have gotten unauthorized access to payment card data at certain Forever 21 stores. Upon hearing the update, the retailer immediately launched an investigation of its payment card systems and engaged a leading security and forensics firm to assist.
Forever 21 implemented encryption and tokenization solutions in 2015, a move that left only certain point-of-sale devices in some Forever 21 stores vulnerable when encryption support went offline. The company's investigation is focused on card transactions that occurred in stores between March and October 2017.
Since the investigation is ongoing, the retailer said it is too early to reveal specific details. However, Forever 21 expects to provide additional updates once specific stores and timeframes are revealed, according to the company.
“We regret that this incident occurred and apologize for any inconvenience,” the company said. “We will continue to work to address this matter.”
The fast-fashion retailer also urged customers to closely monitor their payment card statements. If customers notice an unauthorized charge, they are encouraged to immediately notify the bank that issued the card, there retailer said.
Based on payment card network rules, cardholders are typically not responsible for such charges.