Did you hear? Auchan, the massive French store chain, has just experienced a data breach. Hackers gained access into Auchan's system and published information about hundreds of thousands of customers. Creepy, right? Let's get straight to the point in simple words. What Happened? As you can tell, hackers accessed Auchan's loyalty program system. Here are some of the things they took:
• Names and titles
• Addresses
• Emails and phone numbers
• Loyalty card numbers and status
There's some good news! There were no bank details, passwords or PIN code involved.
However, even without that, the dumped data is sufficient to create issues.
• Hackers can send an email to you that looks real (phishing).
• Your phone could get spam or scam messages.
• With your address, scammers can trick you with fake letters or phone calls.
And guess what? Auchan had another breach last year too. That could mean that their systems might not even be robust enough yet.
• Auchan will NEVER ask for passwords or card PINs in an email or on the phone.
• Ignore such emails, and phone calls, they are scams.
• Be cautious of any emails or phone calls claiming to be from Auchan.
• Don’t click on strange links or give out personal information.
• Be aware of messages attempting to exploit your name or address.
Some vigilance may save you some grief.
• Names and titles
• Addresses
• Emails and phone numbers
• Loyalty card numbers and status
There's some good news! There were no bank details, passwords or PIN code involved.
However, even without that, the dumped data is sufficient to create issues.
Why is this a problem?
You might be thinking, “It’s just my name and my email address, big deal right?” Well, here is the risk:• Hackers can send an email to you that looks real (phishing).
• Your phone could get spam or scam messages.
• With your address, scammers can trick you with fake letters or phone calls.
And guess what? Auchan had another breach last year too. That could mean that their systems might not even be robust enough yet.
What Auchan Is Doing
Auchan informed customers of the breach and notified France’s data protection office (CNIL). They also reminded people:• Auchan will NEVER ask for passwords or card PINs in an email or on the phone.
• Ignore such emails, and phone calls, they are scams.
What You Should Do
If you are an Auchan customer, or shop there, or use a loyalty card, consider these quick suggestions:• Be cautious of any emails or phone calls claiming to be from Auchan.
• Don’t click on strange links or give out personal information.
• Be aware of messages attempting to exploit your name or address.
Some vigilance may save you some grief.
