What can we learn from the PlayStation Network Hacking?

Online gaming safety is the order of the day. This can hardly be stressed enough. Players are always looking for ways to enhance the security of their personal information and with the age of hackers firmly upon us, it’s completely sensible to adopt a careful approach to online security. With black hat hackers corrupting seemingly impenetrable gaming networks, it’s wise practice to adopt security measures to enhance online security and pave the way for ‘peace of mind’ gaming.

What Happened at Sony?

Without raising a ruckus, some 77 million members of Sony’s PSN (Playstation Network) had their personal data hacked. The information that was retrieved included names, addresses and in all likelihood credit card details. As soon as Sony heard the news, they shut down the network. But the good news is that the 3 digit credit card codes were not stored, so they’ve not been compromised at all. The encryption of personal biographical data was not done, so hackers retrieved substantial personal information. This massive internal breach occurred on the 19^th April but details only emerged by the 25^th.  There is little evidence to suggest – at present at least – that credit card data was taken. As stated, the CVC numbers were not stored, so online security should be watertight. Sony recommends that users change their online passwords to enhance their gaming security.

Top Tips for Enhanced Gaming Security

At the top of the list of security tips is privacy. It’s 100% advisable not to share your online gaming password with anyone. But it goes beyond that because few people literally give out their passwords to their online accounts. It goes to the issue of where and how you store your password. Using a laptop or PC that doesn’t lock (or doesn’t have a password) is foolhardy, especially if multiple users make use of your Internet connection and computer. There are multiple password programs that remember your passwords and allow you to quickly and easily log into sites online. Sites like Roboform and others are good examples. If you’re going to use this type of software then take care not to store all your information where others can easily retrieve it. Use encryption protocols, stronger passwords and more sensible alphanumeric codes.

A good rule of thumb is to use longer passwords that contain uppercase, lowercase, letters and numbers. This will make it virtually impossible to guess or to figure out. Don’t use things like your identification number, social security number, birthday or name of your spouse/partner or pet. These rank among the most instantly recognizable passwords. Site security extends beyond the passwords to the manner in which you deposit funds into your online account. Remember that credit cards are generally safe to use, provided they are your own and that you follow proper protocol. Use of credit cards is enhanced by way of a preferred payment processing option in PayPal, Neteller, Ukash, Instadebit, Bank Wire, PaySafe Card, Moneta and others. Debit cards are totally safe ways to provide for secure deposits.