Sony’s Playstation Network still offline following security breach

Almost three weeks after an attack by the hacktivist group, Anonymous, Sony’s PlayStation Network remains offline as the Japanese electronics giant works to rebuild the service that connected PlayStation 3 (PS3) consoles to games, films, and other digital offerings.

PlayStation Network and Qriocity streaming music service were turned off April 20 in the wake of an “external intrusion,” according to Sony spokesman Patrick Seybold.

“I know you are waiting for additional information on when PlayStation Network and Qriocity services will be online,” Seybold said in a blog post.

“Unfortunately, I don’t have an update or timeframe to share at this point in time.”

Sony shut off PlayStation Network and Qriocity to investigate the breach and bolster defenses, according to Seybold.

“We are working around the clock to bring them both back online,” Seybold said in an update during the weekend.

“Our efforts to resolve this matter involve re-building our system to further strengthen our network infrastructure.”

Players were still able to take part in games offline on the consoles, but lost the ability to challenge others on the internet, stream movies, or get other services.

“Well, I hope the rebuilding of your network also helps make certain things on the PSN quicker,” someone using the screen name ‘bigdaddykraven’ said in a chat forum beneath Seybold’s update to the situation.

“First and foremost though, just do what is needed to get secure and get the system up and running.”

Sony did not indicate whether it identified a culprit in the intrusion.

Internet vigilante group Anonymous had vowed retribution against Sony for taking legal action against hackers who cracked PS3 defenses to change console operating software.

A message signed by Anonymous at website anonnews.org early this month announced an “Operation Payback” campaign aimed at Sony because of its cases against the two hackers, one of whom cut a deal to settle the case.

Anonymous argued that PS3 console owners have the right to do what they wish with them, including modifying them. – AFP