Sony announced this weekend that they're going to begin a phased re-launch of PSN and Qriocity in the coming days. Both services have been offline since hackers broke in and stole a large amount of user data.
The full re-launch will finish by the end of the month. The first phase will bring back the following services:
•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
Upon logging onto PSN, users will be required to change their passwords. Passwords will only be editable on the PS3 on which an account was activated or through e-mail confirmation. Sony hopes this will make accounts harder to crack. This new feature is accompanied by several other security improvements undertaken by the company, such as adding more firewalls and implementing automated software monitoring.
Sony plans to compensate customers for the service outage. First off, they'll be provide "complimentary offering to assist users in enrolling in identity theft protection services and/or similar programs." They'll also give out select PSN content for free, award PSN customers a free month of PlayStation Plus, and credit Music Unlimited subscribers with a free month. The specifics for these giveaways will vary from region to region and will be announced soon.
