PlayStation Network - Sony 2nd in Command Explains PSN Return

I hope you guys like free stuff.

Early in the morning, 1:00 AM EST today to be exact, Sony held a press conference in Tokyo to explain what's going on with the Playstation Network. Kazuo Hirai, Sony's second in command and the face of Playstation, took to the podium and outlined what will happen going forward this coming week and in the near future.

A whole bunch of details after the jump.



In regards to the attack, Kaz had this to say:

“This criminal act against our network had a significant impact not only on our consumers, but our entire industry. These illegal attacks obviously highlight the widespread problem with cyber-security. We take the security of our consumers’ information very seriously and are committed to helping our consumers protect their personal data. In addition, the organization has worked around the clock to bring these services back online, and are doing so only after we had verified increased levels of security across our networks. Our global audience of PlayStation Network and Qriocity consumers was disrupted. We have learned lessons along the way about the valued relationship with our consumers, and to that end, we will be launching a customer appreciation program for registered consumers as a way of expressing our gratitude for their loyalty during this network downtime, as we work even harder to restore and regain their trust in us and our services.”


To translate from corporate speak:


- We screwed up and we understand we did. 
- We worked extra hard to bring back the PSN and beef up security.  
- We are sorry and going to make it up to all of you.


I know all of you want to know exactly what Sony has implemented in order to prevent this from happening again and what they are planning to do to make it up to us. 


Well first off, here are the security improvements Sony have said they have implemented. They may have other stuff that they aren't going to let people know about. 

• 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
• Move of the system to a new data center in a new location.
• Creating the position of Chief Information Security Officer to add a new position of expertise in and accountability for customer data protection and supplement existing information security personnel.

I hope some hacker doesn't take this list as some sort of challenge. Currently, along with the external security firms, the FBI is helping in the investigation of who did hack into the PSN in the first place. That's right, THE FEDERAL BUREAU of INVESTIGATION. I guess most of them own Playstations then, huh?

The FBI. Sony fans. 

The other two things Kaz spoke about was the rollout of the PSN in phases and a 'Welcome Back' program to make up for the suspension of the service. 

The services planned to be back up on Tuesday are the following:

• Restoration of Online game-play across the PlayStation®3 (PS3) and PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) 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

 

Looks like the Playstation Store is out for now along with Hulu Plus, Netflix (though this does work for some users now), NHL Gamecenter, and MLB TV. The PS Store delay probably has to do with reworking the release schedule and making sure that for those that do use a credit card that the checkout process is even more secure now.

Lastly we have the 'Welcome Back' program, Sony's way of saying 'We're sorry.' 

• Each territory will be offering selected PlayStation entertainment content for free download. Specific details of this content will be announced in each region soon.
• All existing PlayStation Network customers will be provided with 30 days free membership in the PlayStation Plus premium service. Current members of PlayStation Plus will receive 30 days free service.
• Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity subscribers (in countries where the service is available) will receive 30 days free service.
• Complimentary offering to assist users in enrolling in identity theft protection services and/or similar programs. The implementation will be at a local level and further details will be made available shortly in each region.

That's right. Free download content and some free 30 day subscriptions. Of note is the Playstation Plus free trial. See, the bonuses that come out of PS + like free games, discounts, and other download bonuses will come on top of whatever other free items Sony is giving away in the program. Though this is an obvious ploy at getting people to sign up for the service, you might as well take advantage of it while they are in a giving mood.

So what do you guys think? Are Sony and the Playstation brand on their way to redeeming themselves? Or do you see yourself jumping on the Microsoft and Xbox bandwagon or possibly Nintendo and their rumored Stream HD console?

Couldn't help it.