In mid-December, someone cracked into TJ Maxx’s computer system and stole a huge swath of credit cards.

Based on the info released so far, all TJ Maxx and Marshall’s transactions from mid-May to December 2006, as well as all of 2003, have been compromised.

If you shopped at TJ Maxx during these times, you’re well advised to check your statements and report any suspicious activity.

TJ Maxx has a toll-free line at 866-484-6978 for customers with questions about the situation. — BEN POPKEN

Retailer TJX reports massive data breach [InfoWorld]