Samples of the new Target RedCard, which use a more secure chip-and-PIN technology. (Credit:Target)
MINNEAPOLIS, April 29 (UPI) -- Target appointed Bob DeRodes as its new CIO to help the company revamp its security systems after a data breach last year affected millions of customers.
Target was at the center of a massive security breach that saw customers lose their card information during peak holiday shopping season last December. DeRodes will help ramp up the retailer's technology operations, including efforts to improve data security, and will plan longer-term digital strategy, the company said in a statement.
"Bob’s history of leading transformational change positions him well to lead our continued breach responses and guide our long-term digital strategy,” said Gregg Steinhafel, Target chairman, president and chief executive officer.
The previous CIO, Beth Jacobs, resigned in March after questions were raised as to whether she was qualified to oversee the protection of Target's system of computers that stores private consumer data.
In addition to the DeRodes announcement, Target said it was accelerating the shifting of all of its Redcard debit and credit cards to chip-and-PIN technology, which is widely used in Europe and considered more secure. Target is expected to spend $100 million to switch to the safer technology.
Prior to this job, DeRodes held senior technology positions at Home Depot and Delta Air Lines. he also serves as a consultant to several federal agencies, including the departments of Homeland Security, Justice and Defense.
Security attacks have hit other companies as well, including Neiman Marcus and Michael's. According to investigators, it seems the same band of hackers performed all three data breaches -- Neiman Marcus, Target and Michael's.
