Hirai was asked why Sony did not inform users sooner. Hirai noted that the firm closed PSN to ”prevent any spread of the damages” and then hired three companies to analyze the damage, including analyzing ”voluminous data”. That’s why it was necessary for Sony to take action ”in a gradual way,” according to the executive. Of course, that didn’t answer the question of why they didn’t inform their customers sooner.
The PlayStation US Blog has the list of services that will be restored, and of a “Welcome Back” program to give rewards to PSN users who’ve stuck it out the last 2 1/2 weeks.
The restoration will apparently be in phases. The initial phase of the rollout will include, but is not limited to, 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
The new security that PSN will feature includes:
• 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
Finally, the compensation promised by the “Welcome Back” program includes:
• 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.
Is Sony forgiven? The US government and various groups haven’t, but have you?
