It seems every day some organization has been breached and their data has been compromised. It has happened to insurance companies, large retailers and now a fast food chain. Wendy’s is investigating claims of a possible credit card breach at some of its locations. This information came to us from The Hill in their article, “Wendy’s probes possible credit card breach.”

Notified by their payment industry contact, there were reports of unusual activity involving payment cards at some of their restaurant locations. Those reports indicated that fraudulent charges may have occurred elsewhere after the cards were legitimately used at some branches of the fast-food chain.

Short of going back to using only cash, an individual or a business has little option but to use credit and/or debit cards. How can we be better protected against data hacks?

Short of identity theft software and programs, encryption by the retailers, and heightened security software, the best step any individual or organization can do is to be more aware. Monitor your statements closely, be judicious about who you hand your card to in purchasing environments, and be aware of your surroundings.

Melody K. Smith

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