eddie bauerOutdoor apparel brand Eddie Bauer engaged Sard Verbinnen & Co. after the retailer was hit by a cyber attack and data breach.

The company said Aug. 18 that it tapped a third party forensic expert "immediately upon detecing the issue." That probe found credit card info used at about 350 Eddie Bauer retail stores from January to July may have been compromised as part of a broader attack aimed at restaurants, hotels and other retailers.

Hotel operator HEI said about 20 of its properties were affected, as well.

CEO Mike Egeck called security of customer data "a top priority" for the Bellevue, Wash.-based company, adding that the company is cooperating with the FBI, cyber data experts and credit card companies, and has strengthened seuciry measures.

The company will also pay for ID theft services from Kroll for customers who made purchses during the possible breach period.

Sard's San Francisco office is advising EB, including principal David Isaacs.