Hackers getting quicker, completing larger data heists

Another report of a credit card hack has consumers on edge tonight.

Dairy Queen is just the latest of several retailers reporting massive data breaches.

But aside from constantly watching your account activity, there isn’t much you can do.

Luckily many credit card companies and banks give you instant access to your account.

If you catch a fraudulent charge early, you’re in luck.

But in terms of a surefire method to stop yourself from being hacked, one private investigator in the Springs says it’s just not possible.

“The hacking of credit card data, it’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when,” said Craig Smith, chief investigator, Bright Star Investigations.

Craig Smith constantly monitors hacking activity within the country.

“Hackers don’t care who they hack unless they’re trying to make some sort of political or social point. They want the credit cards,” he said.

Every time you swipe, that credit or debit card number is stored, either in an online database or cloud system.

Hackers will scan the Internet, and while your numbers are technically secured they can still find access.

“It doesn’t matter if it’s Dairy Queen, 7 Eleven or Red Robin,” he said. “They’re going to go after whoever they can get the credit cards because then they can sell that information online.”