Says now that it has taken steps to enhance network security in the wake of the hacker breach will begin a ” phased rollout by region” of the PSN services “shortly.”
Sony PlayStation network users now have a timetable as to when they can expect services to resume following its closure after it was discovered hackers had breached the network’s security.
It says it conducted an “extensive audit of the system” and implemented a ” variety of new security measures to provide greater protection of personal information.” It’s been reported that over 70 million accounts may have been comprised – including credit card information. Sony insists the data is encrypted and inaccessible, but still warned users that “your credit card number (excluding security code) and expiration date may have been obtained. ”
With the system audit completed, Sony says that has “implemented a variety of new security measures” that it says will “provide greater protection of personal information.”
“With these measures in place, Sony Computer Entertainment (SCE) and Sony Network Entertainment International (SNEI) plan to start a phased rollout by region of the services shortly,” it adds.
Sony says the initial phase of the rollout will include, but is not limited to, the following:
- Restoration of Online game-play across the PS3 and PSP systems-This includes titles requiring online verification and downloaded games
- Access to Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity for PS3/PSP for existing subscribers
- Access to account management and password reset
- Access to download un-expired Movie Rentals on PS3, PSP and MediaGo
- PlayStation Home
- Friends List
- Chat Functionality
For those reluctant to return to the PlayStation Network, as I mentioned earlier, Sony says it will introduce a “Welcome Back” customer appreciation program to ”thank its customers for their patience and loyalty.” It includes a combination of free entertainment and service offerings as well as 30 days of free PlayStation Plus premium service for existing PlayStation Network customers.
As for those still concerned about network security, Sony detailed specific steps it’s going to take to protect their information.
They include:
- Added automated software monitoring and configuration management to help defend against new attacks
- Enhanced levels of data protection and encryption
- Enhanced ability to detect software intrusions within the network, unauthorized access and unusual activity patterns
- Implementation of additional firewalls
In the meantime, the FBI, Congress, 22 State Attorneys General, and at least 5 foreign countries are getting involved.
Stay tuned.
I've been interested in P2P since the early, high-flying days of Napster and KaZaA. I believe that analog copyright laws are ill-suited to the digital age, and that art and culture shouldn't be subject to the whims of international entertainment industry conglomerates. Twitter | Google Plus
