[Dataloss] Visa reveals ATM processor breach

[Chris Walsh]

Visa says ATM security breach may have exposed consumer data

By MICHAEL LIEDTKE

The Associated Press

SAN FRANCISCO

Visa USA on Tuesday confirmed an ATM security breakdown has exposed  
more consumers to potential mischief, the latest in a long line of  
lapses that have illuminated the often flimsy controls over the  
personal information entrusted to businesses, schools and government  
agencies.

The latest breach dates back to February when San Francisco-based  
Visa began notifying banks of a security problem affecting a U.S.- 
based contractor that processed automated teller machine transactions.

Visa, one of the nation's largest issuer credit and debit cards,  
publicly acknowledged the trouble Tuesday in response to media  
inquiries prompted by Wachovia Bank's decision to replace an untold  
number of debit cards issued to its customers.

Charlotte, N.C.-based Wachovia issued the card replacements last week  
as an antifraud measure, said bank spokeswoman Mary Beth Navarro. She  
declined to explain the circumstances that triggered the action after  
several months.

Visa also gave out few details about the incident. Thousands of banks  
have issued millions of debit cards bearing the Visa logo.

In a statement, Visa said it is working with its member banks and  
authorities "to do whatever is necessary to protect cardholders."

Under Visa's policy, consumers aren't held liable for any  
unauthorized purchases made with their cards.

Visa's security headache is hardly isolated.

[...]

http://www.pe.com/ap_news/California2/CA_Visa_ATM_Breach_242145CA.shtml