NEWS
Sony details return of PSN services, customer appreciation program
Some PlayStation Network and Qriocity services will be returning this week along with a new customer appreciation program, following the recent cyber attack on Sony's San Diego, CA data center, the company said on Sunday.
Sony Computer Entertainment (SCE) and Sony Network Entertainment International (SNEI) will soon begin a regional phased restoration of services that will include online game play for the PS3 and PSP, access to PlayStation Home, access to chat and friends lists, and access to account management and password reset. PSN users who have un-expired movie rentals on PS3, PSP and MediaGo will be able to download their movies as well.
Sony says it is also implementing new security features designed to prevent further attacks, including enhanced levels of data protection and encryption, and additional firewalls. Also, the company is requiring PS3 users to download a software update that will force them to change their account password before signing into the service. The password can only be changed on the same console on which the account was activated, or through validated email confirmation. A critical step, Sony says, to further protect customer data.
By way of apology for its recent troubles, Sony will also be rolling out a "Welcome Back" program, which will offer each region select PlayStation content for free. There is no word yet on what that content will be. All existing PSN customers will also get 30 days free membership to PlayStation Plus, while current PlayStation Plus members will receive 30 days free service. Qriocity subscribers will receive 30 free days of the music service as well.
Sony says additional “Welcome Back” offerings will be rolled out over the coming weeks as PSN returns to normal.