SPEC'S reveals security breach at 34 stores

THE WOODLANDS, Texas -- It’s out of the bag - SPEC'S announced Friday more than half a million customers have had critical financial information stolen at 34 of their liquor store locations. The company issued a statement saying the breach is believed to have started Oct. 31, 2012, and continued as late as last week. The security theft includes not only credit and debit cards, but personal checks too.

SPEC's released the following statement: "This invasion is extremely upsetting to us and we are deeply concerned about its impact on you, our customers. Earning and maintaining your loyalty and trust is our highest priority."

Many in the community commented on Facebook upon hearing the news, but there was no mention of it on SPEC’s Facebook page. Most of the comments lamented SPEC’s for not detecting the security problem for almost a year and a half. Others were dismayed that they had just gone through this scenario with Target, just to experience it all over again. Some vowed to go back to a ‘cash only’ basis, and stash the cash under their mattresses. And then there are those who found humor in the face of adversity. Without calling anyone out by name, some of the funniest comments expressed on Facebook:

“That's ‘Spec’tacular’ not!”

“This is the first time not drinking has actually helped me.”

“Now I really need a drink!”

All joking aside, SPEC’S customers should notify their credit card providers and banking institutions if they shopped at SPEC’S during the past 15+ months. Stores affected included those in The Woodlands area:

10491 Kuykendahl, The Woodlands
4747 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands
4775 West Panther Creek, The Woodlands

Other affected stores in the surrounding area:

1304 West Davis, Conroe
14110 Stuebner Airline
14114 Stuebner Airline

Stores that have closed, but were open during the time of the compromise:

2230 Buckthorne Place, The Woodlands
9420 College Park, The Woodlands

The breach in security affected mostly stores in the Greater Houston area, but also also included Bryan, College Station, Corpus Christi, and El Paso.

The Houston office of the Secret Service is involved in the investigation.

SPEC’S has set up a call number for those who suspect they have been affected by the security breach. For more information, the hotline number is 855-731-6017.