Friday, April 29, 2011

Nice job, Sony


Like many others, have a PlayStation network account.  And apparently someone not only hacked their network, but was somehow able to download unencrypted files containing ALL the information about the users of the network, including passwords and credit card information.  Many people have observed that this may be retaliation from the hacker community in response to the way Sony handled the Geohot case.

I look at it this way - I understand that it's virtually impossible to be 100% certain that someone can't break into your home (servers).  You lock the doors and windows, maybe install an alarm system and cameras, etc. One thing you DON'T do is lay all of your valuables (account holders' information - all unencrypted) right at the front doorstep in a convenient carrying case, to make the thief's life easier.

Once they became aware of the intrusion, Sony shut down the network and spent a week or so having forensics experts figure out what happened.  Only then did they come out and admit that the hackers GOT EVERYTHING.  I can't wait to see what happens with a class action suit.  Of course, by the time everyone gets their piece of the settlement, the end users will get a $20 gift card for the PlayStation Network.  Once that happens, watch eBay for them.  They'll probably be at a significant discount to face value.

Magically I've been getting notices like "you recently attempted to access your account using your secret questions" from a variety of places.  Hmmm... Thanks Sony.  And by the way, as soon as the network is back up, I may be hacking my PS3 and maybe even play some pirated games - because you deserve it.  Besides - I rarely even play games on the PS3 anyway.  The Xbox 360 has a MUCH better online experience in virtually every respect.