USA

The TJX case, one of the largest ID- and CC-theft cases so far, has finally gone to court.

The Feds rolled up a large, international circle of criminals who are charged for hacking their way to access a wide array of personal data. According to Attorney General Michael Mukasey, this is the single largest and most complex identity theft case that's ever been charged in the US.

Companies that got hacked include major brands like the OfficeMax, Barnes & Noble, Boston Market, Sports Authority, Forever 21, DSW, BJ's Wholesale Club and TJX Companies.

"They used sophisticated computer hacking techniques that would allow them to breach security systems and then install computer programs that gathered enormous quantities of personal financial data, which they then allegedly either sold to others or used themselves," Mukasey said. "They caused widespread losses by banks, retailers and customers."

The TJX Senior Vice President Sherry Lang ensures that TJX has gone a long way in order to assist the investigation:

"With our customers always being our primary focus, TJX has gone to great lengths to secure its customers' data," Lang said. "However, broader action beyond retailers alone is required to protect consumer data. Banks and the U.S. payment card industry must join retailers and work together, including installing the proven card security measures in the U.S. that are already in use throughout much of the rest of the world."

I like Lang's request - there is no doubt in my mind that the more we integrate and consolidate technology, solutions and tools - into what we consider efficient communication - the easier it is to exploit those tools. Remember - a few years back, you had to hack into each shop. A little later, you could reach the HQ, as the shops started to interconnect. Today, you can reach almost anything, anywhere - just using your brains and a computer.

Compliance is one thing that may help, better understanding of the technology and it's potential is equally important. From a business point of view, I think it is very important to consider the upside of adopting new (young) technology against the potential damage the new technology may inflict.

I am looking forward to following this case!

Other TJX related information

• TJX – you have done a great job!

• TJX gives CC advice to their customers!!!

• TJX update and "How it was done"
  

• TJX economics - the price it is easy to calculate
  

• TJX - the Wall Street Journal article
  

• All posts tagged: TJX

This post most likely will upset a few readers. If you are easy to upset, please do not read it. You have been warned.

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One thing about not being American is the fact that I can view their behavior from the outside. And one of the things I do have a hard time accepting is their praise of God. Everything seems to evolve around a hypocritical praise of the Lord. 

Combine this praise with their focus on anti-terrorism, and self-heroism. What do you get? A war on religion.

I am not a fan of terrorism. Just as I am no fan of war. But I do not think that praising the Lord is a good way to fight religious terrorism, or Muslims. I think that only serves to fuel the fire. 

I strongly believe that the best way to fight terrorism and violence is by education, by respect and by developing common ground. And of course time. Change takes time, and it is often felt hard for the involved parties.

The challenge we face in fighting terrorism is not easy to overcome. It only takes one party to spoil the process - as we have seen in the Israel vs. Palestinian case over the years. If one prime minister decides that the proposed outcome is not in their best interest, they decide to build a wall. There seems to be little interest in compromises and "best-for-all" solutions.

And when the US targets the terrorists around the world, with "and God bless America!", I must admit I take offense.  I do not believe in that God. I am not American. And I certainly do not think a God who tells a believer "not to kill" should be blessing a warfare. And most importantly - I know that if I was a terrorist in a Muslim country, I would use that blessing as a proof that the enemy's only wish is to get away with all Muslims (as well as other opposing religions). 

What happens then when America is blessed and no Muslims are available as a threat? Will Europe be the next target? Or will the power of China become to much of a threat? 

I suggest we start develop an educational program which encompasses all major religions, and political power. We should ensure the distribution of this not only in the Middle east and other terrorist habitats, but it should be included in our education as well. Only when we all know, understand and respect our differences will we be able to control and countermeasure terrorism, warfare and unfair political games. 

This is no quick fix - with easy to show results. This will take time - generations. We need to teach our children respect for each other, for themselves and for the unknown.

Including respecting the "God bless America" that currently wipes across the world.  As well as respecting the fact that modernization is required also in religions like Muslims. Going back to Sharia laws is not progress - that is pure regress.