Notification of Merchant Visa Debit Card Security Breach

We were recently notified by Visa that a large merchant, TJX (including TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Homegoods and A.J. Wright in the U.S., Winners and HomeSense in Canada) may have inadvertently made customers’ card numbers and card information available to others due to a security breach.

We take security breaches very seriously and we will do everything possible to protect you. Visa has provided us with a list of card numbers that were obtained fraudulently. If your card number was on this list, we will reissue you another Visa debit card with new card and PIN numbers. Notification letters will be mailed out beginning February 1, 2007 and will continue for the next few weeks.

Remember that with Visa’s Zero Liability Policy, you’re not liable for any unauthorized purchases made online or for signature-based transactions at merchants.

Please read our frequently asked questions below for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened?

We were recently notified by Visa that TJX companies may have inadvertently made customers’ card numbers and card information available to others due to a security breach.

Who are the TJX companies? How can I learn more about this particular incident?

TJX companies include TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Homegoods and A.J. Wright in the US; Winners and HomeSense in Canada. You can contact the TJX special help line at 866-484-6978 or visit their website at www.tjx.com. You can also speak to a BRA representative at 800-579-8772.

Are Banque Royale d’Arcadia customers affected?

We have received a list of card numbers affected by the breach from Visa. Beginning February 1, 2007 and for the next few weeks, customers who might be impacted by the breach will receive a letter providing the details of their cards’ reissue.

What is Banque Royale d’Arcadia doing about this breach?

We take security breaches very seriously, so we have decided to reissue the affected Visa debit cards with new card and PIN numbers.

Has my card been compromised?

Visa has provided us with a list of card numbers that were obtained fraudulently. If your card number was among them, you will receive a letter and a new card.

How does this incident compare to identity theft?

It is important to understand that a security breach of this nature is card information-related only. There is no personal information linked to a card number. Identity theft issues arise when a breach of customer personal information is obtained.

If my card number was fraudulently used, am I liable for any activity?

Visa’s Zero Liability Policy protects you from any unauthorized purchases made when used online or for signature-based transactions at merchants.

Do I need to close my card now?

While some of our customers’ cards were involved in the compromise, we have put additional security measures in place on those cards and you can continue to use your card.

I’m still uncomfortable. Can’t I close my card now?

Of course, we can close your card immediately and reissue a new one. You can contact us at 800-579-8772.

Can I still use my old card?

Yes. Please continue to use your old card until you receive your new one.

If I receive a new card, will my PIN remain the same?

No, for your protection you will receive a new card and PIN.

Will I need to activate my new card?

Yes, please activate your new card immediately as instructed on the card’s orange sticker.

What should I do with my old card?

After you have activated your new card, you should destroy your old card. We will automatically close your old card once you have activated your new card.

What should I do about the automatic payments deducted through my Visa debit card?

If your card is replaced, you should contact the merchants to let them know that you have a new card number. They can easily make the change to continue your services. With your new card, we will include a form to help make this easier for you.

Are any of my other cards at risk?

If you used your card at one of these merchants during the timeframe specified (May 2006 to January 2007) it is possible that it could be compromised as well.

How could this happen?

Information that gets compromised can be picked up many different ways with today’s modern technology.

Are there other ways my information can be fraudulently obtained?

Unfortunately, there are many ways information can be fraudulently obtained. Dumpster diving, mail theft, direct access to personal documents in your home, stolen wallets or purses, online data theft and impostors are just some of the ways that people obtain confidential information. Keep in mind that your cards should be safeguarded at all times. See our guidelines in the box to the right.

Will it happen again?

We cannot guarantee that it will not happen again. However, we have sophisticated software that monitors card activity. We are quickly made aware of suspicious card activity and immediately notify customers about potential fraud.