In the aftermath of the reported cyberattack by the hacker group Ransomed.vc on Sony, PLAYSTATION has issued a crucial advisory to its users.
Back in 2011, the PlayStation Network experienced a hack that resulted in the compromise of personal information and passwords for approximately 70 million users.
Given the potential exposure of personal information and passwords for millions of PlayStation owners, the company recommends taking the following five essential steps to safeguard the system.
1. Change your password, avoid repetition, and make substantial changes.
Regular Password Updates: It's crucial to refresh your passwords regularly. Ensure to keep them confidential and update the passwords for your accounts and devices every six months.
Avoid Repetition: Never use the same password for different accounts (e.g., your social media password should differ from your banking password, and so on).
Substantial Changes: When updating your password, make sure to implement significant alterations. Avoid simple substitutions like replacing a letter with a number.
"If you own or use a PlayStation, we recommend changing your PlayStation Network (PSN) password immediately as a precaution. Make sure to use a strong and unique password that uses a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Consider using a password generator, such as LastPass. This is a free tool which is accessible on Google," the experts from the PLAYSTATION said in the advisory.
2. Two-factor authentication
It means you need two different ways of proving it's really you before you can get into your PSN account. This extra step helps make sure your account and the stuff in it stay safe.
This security measure entails entering a code, usually sent via text message or another service, after providing your username and password. Even if a hacker manages to decipher your password, this additional step significantly deters unauthorized access to your account.
3. Stay vigilant with account monitoring
Remaining vigilant about your Sony accounts is a smart move to ensure everything stays secure.
Experts advise setting up alerts to prompt you for regular checks. They also stress the importance of reporting any unusual activity promptly, suggesting contacting both your bank and Sony immediately. This proactive approach helps maintain the safety of your accounts.
4. Reach Out to Sony Support
If you think someone may have accessed your account without permission, reach out to Sony's customer support right away. The experts also recommend giving them a call first and then sending an email to keep a record of your communication. This way, the company can help you quickly and efficiently.
5. Stay Informed with Updates
The organization's experts emphasized the importance of staying informed. They suggested keeping an eye on reliable news sources and watching for official updates from Sony. This way, you'll be well-informed about the situation.
"These updates might come in the form of a press release or a statement on the company website or social media profile. They will likely detail the next steps to take,” said the experts.
