uCard Data Breach Hits Group Behind Golden Nugget Casinos, Rainforest Cafe, And Morer

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  As compared to the flood of the last couple of years, the number of hacks and data breaches facing consumers this holiday season is but a mere trickle. But while the pace may be slowing, shoppers’ card data is, as ever, at risk. The latest large-scale victim? A restaurant conglomerate with over 500 locations.

  Security researcher Brian Krebs reported earlier today that data from banks showed a pattern likely to lead to the Landry restaurant group, and Landry has since confirmed the breach PDF).

  You probably haven’t heard of Landry, but you probably have heard of or eaten at one of their restaurants. The company manages dozens of chains including Morton’s Steakhouse, McCormick & Schmick’s, and the Rainforest Cafe. They also manage several hotels, resorts, and casinos, including the Golden Nugget chain.

  Contacts in the banking industry told Krebs last week that they suspected Landry properties were the common point in several cases of fraud. The problem appears to have started as early as May, 2015 and may still be ongoing.

  Landry did not confirm how many locations were or are affected, saying, “Even though we will not know the full scope of this incident until the investigation is completed, we will work vigilantly to address any potential issues that mat affect our consumers.”

  Landry also wants you to know that they think it shouldn’t happen again, probably: “We want to assure our customers that protecting their payment card information is a top priority and are working non-stop to complete the investigation,” Landry said in their statement. “System changes that we began implementing even before we were apprised of the reports of unauthorized usage have already been made, both to the specific restaurants where the suspect activity occurred as well as the overwhelming majority of our restaurants. The new, enhanced payment system encrypts the card data throughout our processing system.”

  In the meantime, as always, keep a close eye on your own credit and debit card statements and call your bank immediately if you see any suspicious charges.

  Banks: Card Breach at Landry’s Restaurants [Krebs on Security]

  
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by Kate Cox via Consumerist