HOUSTON – Spec's says it experienced an attack on its network that exposed information of some customers and employees, including those in the Houston area.
The theft of customer information affected transactions at 34 neighborhood stores that operate in the greater Houston area, College Station, Corpus Christi and El Paso. Of those, 21 are located in Houston and surrounding areas.
The company says the attack began on Oct. 31, 2012, and possibly continued through March 20 of this year.
Spec's says less than five percent of total customer transactions were impacted. Customers who shopped at the store during that time period and purchased items using checks, debit or credit cards may have had their information stolen.
The stolen data included names, credit card information, card expiration dates, card security codes and checking information.
We're told the attack did not impact the Spec's Superstore in Houston, nor the Rio Grande Valley stores and stores in North and Central Texas.
Spec's says it is working with the U.S. Secret Service during an investigation and taking proactive steps to prevent another attack.
Sugar Land shopper Brandy Clark called the breach scary.
"It makes me want to take out cash and use cash everywhere I go," said Clark.
The company released a statement which read in part, "This invasion is extremely upsetting to us and we are deeply concerned about its impact on you, our customers. Earning and maintaining your loyalty and trust is our highest priority."
