Cyber Incident Victim: Biggby Coffee
Date:
Apr 2015
Location:
United States of America
Summary
A cybersecurity breach at Biggby Coffee involved unauthorized access to a database containing customer and employment applicant information, including names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and employment history. The compromised data originated from online registrations for loyalty cards and job applications, with less than 20% of customer records affected. The company’s web developer detected the intrusion and alerted them approximately one week prior to public disclosure. Law enforcement was notified, and security enhancements were implemented to prevent future incidents. At the time of notification, there was no evidence of misuse of the accessed personal information.
| CIA Posture | Motives | Tactics, Techniques & Procedures |
|---|---|---|
| Available to members | 1 motive | 2 techniques |
| Threat Actors | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 0 actors | Available to members | Available to members |
Description
In April 2015, Michigan-based Biggby Coffee disclosed a cybersecurity incident involving unauthorized access to its systems. The company’s web developer and hosting provider, Traction, detected the intrusion and alerted Biggby approximately one week before the public notification was posted on April 3. An intruder forcibly gained access to a database containing personal information submitted by customers and job applicants through the biggby.com website. The compromised data included names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and employment history details. Biggby emphasized that only information voluntarily provided via their website—specifically through Biggby Card registrations or employment applications—was exposed. The company estimated that less than 20% of its customer data was accessed during the breach. Upon discovery, Biggby immediately reported the incident to law enforcement authorities and initiated security enhancements to fortify its systems against future intrusions. At the time of the April 3 notification, no evidence suggested misuse of the stolen information.
The breach impacted individuals who had engaged with Biggby’s online platforms for loyalty programs or employment opportunities, though the exact number of affected parties remained undisclosed. Biggby’s response focused on transparency, directly informing customers via its website while underscoring that no point-of-sale systems or physical store operations were compromised. The company’s public statement clarified that the intrusion exclusively targeted data submitted through web-based forms, excluding financial details or passwords. Security improvements were implemented following Traction’s involvement, though specific technical measures were not detailed in the announcement. Biggby reiterated its commitment to safeguarding customer information and advised vigilance despite the absence of confirmed fraudulent activity linked to the breach. The incident highlighted vulnerabilities in the company’s digital infrastructure, prompting corrective actions to prevent recurrence.