In November 2023, Ace Hardware encountered a cyber incident that affected many of its IT systems, disrupting operations and order processing. While customers could still browse products online, they were unable to place orders. The company is collaborating with IT professionals to resolve the issue. Subsequently, retailers associated with Ace Hardware faced phishing attempts.

How many accounts were compromised?

The exact number of compromised accounts or users is not mentioned in the available sources, but the cyberattack impacted 1,202 devices across Ace Hardware's IT systems.

What data was leaked?

The data exposed in the breach has not been explicitly mentioned in the available sources, but the cyberattack impacted various IT systems, including ACENET, Warehouse Management Systems, Ace Retailer Mobile Assistant (ARMA), Hot Sheets, Invoices, Ace Rewards, and the Care Center's phone system.

How was Ace Hardware hacked?

The cyberattack on Ace Hardware involved a breach of numerous IT systems, causing widespread disruption to the company's operations. The specific methods used by the hackers to infiltrate the systems remain unclear, as does the presence of any malware on the affected servers. In response, Ace Hardware has been working with IT experts to restore the impacted systems and mitigate the effects of the attack.

Ace Hardware's solution

In response to the cyberattack, Ace Hardware took several measures to secure its platform and prevent future incidents. While specific details about the removal of malware and backdoors remain unclear, the company has engaged with a group of IT experts to help restore the impacted systems. Ace Hardware has also sent notices to retailers about the attack, informing them of the interruptions to key operating systems. Although no direct mention of enhancing security protocols or encouraging password changes was found, the company's efforts to work with IT experts and maintain transparency with retailers demonstrate their commitment to addressing the hack and mitigating its effects.

How do I know if I was affected?

Ace Hardware has not explicitly mentioned reaching out to affected users in the available sources. If you are an Ace Hardware customer and are concerned about the potential impact of the breach on your account, you can visit HaveIBeenPwned to check your credentials.

What should affected users do?

In general, affected users should:

• Change Your Password: Immediately update your password for the breached account. Make sure the new password is strong and unique, not previously used on any other platform.

• Reset Passwords for Other Accounts: If you've used the same or similar passwords for other online accounts, reset those as well. This is crucial as attackers often try using stolen passwords on multiple sites.

• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Activate 2FA on the breached account and consider enabling this additional security feature on all other important online accounts to significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access.

• Monitor Your Accounts: Keep an eye on your accounts for any suspicious activity and report any unauthorized access or transactions to the respective platform or financial institution.

For more specific help and instructions related to Ace Hardware's data breach, please contact Ace Hardware Customer Service directly.

Where can I go to learn more?

If you want to find more information on the Ace Hardware data breach, check out the following news articles:

• Ace Hardware Still Reeling From Weeklong Cyberattack

• Ace Hardware says 1,202 devices were hit during cyberattack