By George Anderson
Ross-Simons, a multi-channel retailer of jewelry, tabletop, gifts and collectibles, has reported an external breach in its security that may have given unauthorized parties access to consumers' personal and financial information.
The company discovered the breach and notified commercial partners and authorities on April 4. It is now in the process of notifying all customers that may be affected.
"Customers who applied for a Ross-Simons private label credit card prior to April 4, 2006 are being notified about the security breach. The company will work with them to address any concerns or questions they have," said Dante Bellini, Jr., spokesperson for Ross-Simons in a released statement.
The Providence, Rhode Island-based retailer, which mails over 60 million catalogs annually along with operating a web site and 15 stores, is no longer storing consumer applications for its private label credit cards.
The company also said it has "engaged an independent third party to conduct an immediate external audit of its security procedures."
Customers of Ross-Simons with additional questions can call 1-888-838-0815 or go to http://www.ross-simons.com/content/rspa_customer_faq.htm.
Moderator's Comment: Will Ross-Simons' sales be hurt by the announcement consumers' personal information may have been accessed by unauthorized outside parties? How should Ross-Simons and other retailers faced with bad news of this type deal with it internally and publicly? - George Anderson - Moderator