Why Target Waited So Long to Disclose Its Massive Security Breach

Target began notifying customers about a massive security breach that exposed debit and credit card information of many who shopped in its stores earlier in January. One email to a customer fittingly began with: "As you may have heard or read ..."

By the time Target sent this message, nearly a month had passed since the retailer confirmed the breach publicly. That admission was prompted by the findings of one Internet security writer and came four days after the security incident was said to have begun.

Some have criticized Target for waiting too long to disclose its security breach, suggesting the retailer may not have wanted to undermine the peak holiday shopping season. For better or worse though, Target's decision not to reveal the news immediately puts it in good companyNieman Marcus also waited weeks to reveal a security breach that took place in the second half of last year, as have other businesses like Barnes & Noble Read more...