Travelodge UK is investigating an apparent hacking attack on its customer database. The hotel chain issued a warning to users of its online service to be on the lookout for spam e-mails. Full details of the security breach were not immediately available. A spokesperson said it seemed that a limited number of people were affected. No financial information or payment details were stolen in the attack, according to Travelodge.
A letter to customers, signed by the company's chief executive Guy Parsons, contains little information about the nature of the leak, although it stresses that Travelodge had not sold user data to a third party. It also quotes the spam e-mail that some customers have received.
"Good day. Don't miss exciting career opening. The company is seeking for self-motivated people in United Kingdom to help us spread out our activity in the UK area," said the message.
The company promised to give further updates once is has completed an internal investigation.
This was the Letter send by the CEO of Travelodge, by stating that Customer Data has been stolen
Thursday 23rd June 2011 (3.00pm)
Dear Customer,
Our main priority is to ensure the security of our customers’ data, which is why I wanted to make you aware, that a small number of you; may have received a spam email via the email address you have registered with us.
Please be assured, we have not sold any customer data and no financial information has been compromised.
All financial data (including credit card information) is compliant with current best practice standards and is audited to PCI (Payment Card Industry) requirements.
The safety and security of your personal information is of the upmost importance to us and as a result we are currently conducting a comprehensive investigation into this issue.
If you receive an email similar to the one detailed below, please delete it as spam.
Good day. Don't miss exciting career opening. The company is seeking for self-motivated people in United Kingdom to help us spread out our activity in the UK area. Conditions: - Full age United Kingdom resident - Only basic knowledge of Internet & computer. - Free access to personal e-mail box - 2-3 free hours per day - Immediate replies on our written requests - good organizational skills. You can without problem connect our work with your primary activity. Brilliant income ability. Free training available. Applicants must be smart and commerce motivated. Working only some hours per day. Any person residing in the United Kingdom can be our representative. Our manager will contact you within few hours if you attracted. ---------------- Local News: from paris, with love who's the toast of the airport show.
If you have any questions regarding this matter please email: andrea@travelodge.co.uk. A further update will be given, when we have completed our investigation.
Guy Parsons
Chief Executive
-News Source (BBC)
