Staples investigating possible data breach

NEW YORK – Staples is looking into a potential credit card data breach and has been in touch with law enforcement officials about the issue.

The office supplies retailer said Tuesday that if it turns up any data discrepancies during its investigation, customers won't be responsible for fraudulent activity on their credit cards as long as it is reported in a timely manner.

"We take the protection of customer information very seriously, and are working to resolve the situation," spokesman Mark Cautela said in a statement.

Earlier this month Sears Holdings Corp. reported a breach at its Kmart stores that started last month, saying some customers' credit and debit cards may have been compromised. Other breaches have occurred at retailers including Target Corp., Supervalu Inc. and Home Depot Inc..

Ruth to the Rescue: How to protect your accounts

Shares of Staples Inc., based in Framingham, Massachusetts, slipped 3 cents to $12.27 in midday trading. Its shares have fallen 23 percent over the past year.