America’s Thrift Stores announced Friday that it is the latest business to fall victim to criminals who were stealing customer credit card information.

The 18-store chain, with a location in Gardendale, said the data breach occurred through the third-party service provider’s software, used for processing credit card payments in Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee.

In a news release, America’s Thrift Stores said the breach originated from Eastern Europe and allowed access to some credit card numbers used in the store Sept. 1-27, 2015.

The malware was removed from the stores’ computers, and purchases outside of those dates should not be at risk.

America’s Thrift Stores cautioned customers who fear their data may have been compromised to contact their card issuer or bank immediately, and to report any suspicious activity as soon as it is discovered. 

“This was a very serious attack on our customers and our stores — and we apologize to our customers for any inconvenience,” said Ken Sobaski, the company’s chief executive officer, said in the news release. “Data breaches are becoming far too common, these days. We urge all shoppers – whether at our stores or others – to check their credit and debit card statements every month for any fraudulent charges. Any suspicious activity should be reported to your bank and card issuers right away.”