Hannaford announced containment of a data intrusion into its computer network that resulted in the theft of customer credit and debit card numbers. This data was illegally accessed from Hannaford's computer systems during the card verification transmission process in transactions. Further, Hannaford is cooperating with credit and debit card issuers to ensure those customers who may be affected by the theft are protected.

The intrusion affected Hannaford stores in New England and New York State and Sweetbay stores in Florida. Also affected are certain, independently-owned retail locations in the Northeast that carry Hannaford products.

Hannaford was first made aware of suspicious credit card activity on Feb. 27, and immediately initiated a comprehensive investigation with the assistance of leading computer security experts.

We have continually devoted significant round-the-clock resources to ensure Hannaford has comprehensive data security systems in place. For example, our security measures meet industry compliance standards and many go above and beyond what is required by industry standards.

We are continually committed to taking whatever steps may be necessary to enhance these systems to prevent this type of incident from happening again.

Hannaford was first made aware of suspicious credit card activity on Feb. 27, but to make every effort to protect our customers, we would advise customers that have made purchases at our stores using credit and debit cards over the last three months, and who suspect that their accounts may have been compromised, should immediately notify their card issuer or bank. Even if customers do not suspect fraudulent use of their credit or debit cards, it is always important to review billing and bank statements monthly.

The investigation has determined there is no indication any personal information, such as names or addresses, was accessed. Hannaford doesn't collect, know or keep any personally identifiable customer information from transactions.

Customers who made purchases at our stores using credit and debit cards, and who suspect that their accounts may have been compromised, should immediately notify their card issuer or bank. Even if customers do not suspect fraudulent use of their credit or debit cards, it is always important to review billing and bank statements monthly.

Customers can call our dedicated customer assistance line at 866-591-4580 for steps they can take.

We have been working diligently with card issuers to determine the scope of the potential impact to consumers and have continually devoted significant round-the-clock resources to ensure Hannaford has comprehensive data security systems in place.

We are continually committed to taking whatever steps may be necessary to enhance these systems to prevent this type of incident from happening again.

We are not able to send letters directly to potentially affected customers because we do not have their names and addresses. Hannaford doesn't collect, know or keep any personally identifiable customer information from transactions. However, we are committed to providing useful information to our customers and answering any questions they may have.