April 27, 2011

Sony admits to leaked personal data with PlayStation Network hack

by Shalu Pillai

Sony has gone on record to confirm that a security breach at the Playstation Network by hackers has resulted in stolen personal information. According to the company, while personal information was likely stolen they don’t believe credit card numbers were and the Playstation Network service is expected to be back up within a week. The news comes more than nine days after the intrusion and six days after Sony shut down both the Playstation Network and Qriocity services post the breach. Sony has also hired a “recognized security firm” to conduct a complete investigation into what happened. Details like Name, Address (city, state, zip), Country, Email address, Birthdate and PlayStation Network/Qriocity password and login and handle/PSN online ID, are expected to have been leaked. While there is no evidence that credit card data was taken, officials have not ruled out the possibility.

Sony is currently encouraging users to be more alert of potential phishing scams from people using email, phone calls and mail to try and extract more personal or sensitive information as well as recommends users to change their password once they can log back into the Playstation Network. Users can contact 1-800-345-7669 for any additional questions.
[Kotaku]