Starbucks Disputes Claims Mobile App Was Hacked
By Edward Cardenas
SOUTHFIELD (CBS Detroit) - Starbucks is denying reports that its mobile app was hacked and states the "unauthorized activity" may have come from criminals obtaining reused names and passwords.
The company issued a statement after reports hackers were able steal money from the accounts and then used the auto-reload function to steal additional funds.
Starbucks did acknowledge that it constantly monitors for "fraudulent activity and works closely with financial institutions," but it will not disclose specific details of an breaches.
But company did assure customers that "their security is incredibly important and all concerns related to customer security are taken seriously."
The company urged customers to protect their security by using different user names and passwords for different sites. If a customer believes their account has been compromised, they should contact Starbucks and their financial institution immediately.
Other safety measures which customers can take to protect their accounts, according to Starbucks, include:
- Creating passwords made up of long phrases or sentences that mix capital and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols,
- Using different passwords for different sites, especially those that keep financial information,
- Changing passwords often,
- Regularly review bank statements for suspicious activity. If something is in error, immediately report that to your financial institution.
Customers who notice suspicious activity on their Starbucks Card or mobile app should contact p Starbucks customer service at 1-800-STARBUC.