Buzz
If you've exchanged currency with Travelex, it's essential to closely monitor your financial details. Hackers infiltrated the Travelex network six months ago and are demanding $6 million in ransom for the stolen data, as reported by the BBC.
The hackers, identified as the REvil group, claim that if their ransom is paid, they will erase all stolen data—such as birthdates and credit card information—and restore the network. However, if the ransom goes unpaid, they threaten to sell the data instead.
Since December 31, Travelex has restricted access to its website with a notice about 'planned maintenance.' However, foreign exchange services are still available at physical branches.
A statement on the Travelex website today mentioned, 'Our investigation so far shows no evidence that any personal or customer data has been compromised.'
If you made a purchase using a credit or debit card on the Travelex site, it may be wise to reach out to your card issuer and request a replacement. It’s also a good time to ensure that fraud alerts are activated on all your financial accounts. If you haven't already, consider freezing your credit for extra security.
While this won't shield you from the current Travelex breach, it will help you detect any potential fraud quickly and stop hackers from opening new credit lines using your information.
