TJX Cos. reported today that intruders broke into its computers and stole an unknown amount of customer data involving people who shop at its T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, and other stores.
The breach was discovered in mid-December, the Framingham-based retailer said it a news release, but was kept secret until today at the request of law enforcement officials.
TJX did not say how many customers were affected.
The intrusion, TJX said, involves the portion of its computer network that handles credit card, debit card, check, and merchandise return transactions for customers of its T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods, and A.J. Wright stores in the United States, including Puerto Rico, and its Winners and HomeSense stores in Canada.
The intrusion could also extend to TJX’s Bob’s Stores in the United States and to T.K. Maxx stores in the United Kingdom and Ireland.An investigation is continuing, TJX said.
TJX has established a toll-free help line for its customers who have questions about this situation: 866-484-6978.
TJX will also provide information for customers on its website, www.tjx.com.
The company recommended that customers review their account statements and immediately notify their credit or debit card company or bank if they suspect fraud.
In addition, Bruce Spitzer, a spokesman for the Massachusetts Bankers Association, said at least eight banks have been affected by a similar breach of information, related to debit cards they issued.