'Backoff' malware that hit Target could impact 1,000 more businesses

The DHS warned retailers of the Backoff malware that has infected a number of different companies over the past year, as the overall threat rises

By:Michael Hatamoto | Hacking & Security News | Posted: Aug 25, 2014 6:35 pm

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The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) noted that a single point-of-sale malware, dubbed "Backoff," could be responsible for infecting Target, UPS and more than 1,000 U.S. businesses in the past year alone. DHS officials are urging companies scan their networks to ensure they were not infected by Backoff or some other malware variant.

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Seven POS service providers have found malware on their systems, as cybercriminals are interested in selling and purchasing customer personal information on the black market.

Target, Neiman Marcus, Supervalu, P.F. Chang's, UPS Store, and other retailers have been hit by data breaches, as the problem became prevalent following the Target breach. There has been a stronger call for U.S. banks and credit card companies to release new cards that have embedded microchips providing security that scrambles data during transactions.