Travelodge hit by data breach

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Travelodge customers have been with spammed fake job ads as a result of a data breach at the hotel chain.

The extent of the breach is as yet unclear, as is how system access was gained and what the motivation behind the hack was.

The company is currently investigating the issue, according to a letter sent to customers yesterday by chief executive Guy Parsons.

"Our main priority is to ensure the security of our customers’ data, which is why I wanted to make you aware that a small number of you may have received a spam email via the email address you have registered with us," the letter stated.

"The safety and security of your personal information is of the upmost importance to us and as a result we are currently conducting a comprehensive investigation into this issue."

Although it is not clear how many customers have been affected by the breach, more than six million people stayed at a Travelodge last year, according to the company's website. Some 87 per cent of customers also used its website to make reservations.

Parsons' letter sought to reassure worried customers the company had "not sold any customer data and no financial information has been compromised."

A Travelodge press spokeswoman confirmed reports of the breach were correct and advised a statement would be issued shortly.

The chain has informed the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) of the breach, according to reports.

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