The LexisNexis online information service told 32,000 people last night that their personal information may have been improperly accessed by former customers in a credit card fraud scheme that postal officials said had hit hundreds.

According to a report in the Sunday Times, Euronet Worldwide, is considering making a takeover bid for Alphyra. Euronet, quoted on Nasdaq, is an US electronics payment company.

The Alphyra management group which is buying out Alphyra has extended its offer until February 19.