Target said 70 million customers were affected by a data breach at its stores between Nov. 27 and Dec. 15, an increase from a previous estimate of 40 million customers.
The change came during Target's ongoing forensic probe, which revealed that "certain guest information — separate from the payment card data previously disclosed — was taken during the data breach," according to a press release from the company. Target says the theft is not a new breach. The stolen information includes names, mailing addresses, phone numbers or email addresses for those 70 million or so customers.
See also: How to Check If Hackers Stole Your Data in Massive Target Breach
These customers will have zero liability for the cost of any charges incurred during the breach. "I know that it is frustrating for our guests to learn that this information was taken and we are truly sorry they are having to endure this,” Gregg Steinhafel, chairman, president and CEO of Target said in the release. “I also want our guests to know that understanding and sharing the facts related to this incident is important to me and the entire Target team.”
The company also announced that its fourth quarter results have been huret by the breach. Target now expects fourth-quarter earnings per share of $1.20 to $1.30, compared to the previous estimate of $1.50 to $1.60.
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