Sony admits credit card details may have been stolen in PlayStation hack

Security of data

The news that in light of the hack, Sony plans to move its data centre to a location that it claims is more secure raises some interesting questions.

It is worth highlighting that no matter how secure the location and the technology, people are still the key to real security. If employees do not see security as a top priority, then even the most secure system can easily break down - especially if basic access practices relating to hardware, databases, etc. are ignored by technical staff.

Even with robust technology, there is always a need for high-quality ‘human management’. Corporate technologies like secure ID still require a strong bond of trust and a process of education in place between business and employee. After all, unprofessional or disaffected users all too often pass critical information on passwords, codes and ID numbers to others.

A even more farsighted or revolutionary approach for Sony might be to encourage its customers to access their online and gaming services through more secure network access that could, in turn, help track and monitor network external hackers and restore consumer confidence in the Sony network.

Secure services like tibboh, for example, can then become the basis for providing access to age appropriate games or the Internet and even for restricting the use of illegal download sites. They can also help provide a clearer audit trail back to the data thief, reducing the likelihood of a hack attack in the first place.

Phil Dawson, managing director, MDS Technologies

Posted by: Phil Dawson  28 Apr 2011

honestly?

You have to be dumb enough to put real personal details on *any* online service or keep your financial info online for longer than you need.
Always use fake information everywhere you can and of course keep track of that info for recovery or verification purposes (e.g. use KeePass to keep track of your accounts).
Use random temporary email addresses such as blahsomerandomnumber@mailinator.com when subscribing to services. Remove your credit card info after you made a purchase.
Just some safe habits that will spare you from a lot of trouble.

Posted by: blah  27 Apr 2011

ahh well im safe enough then

I have not put any details about where i live or bank details onto PSN because i dont have trust in any online service. All there is is my PSN id and password and it aint hard to change my password. sony will fix it dont worry gamers.

Posted by: Steve Reid  27 Apr 2011