Playstation Network Victims
Sony have confirmed that their Playstation Network, used for downloading games films and online content for Playstation 3 and Playstation Portable consoles, suffered an “intrusion” by hackers on April 20th. Sony closed the Network for two weeks but have now confirmed that hackers acquired the personal details of up to 77 million network members – including 3 million within the United Kingdom- exposing them to the danger of identity and credit fraud.
How could my personal information be used?
Stolen personal data may be used to create accounts which include mobile phone contracts or utility services with the person’s identity, or make application for credit, including bank cards or financial loans. Fraudsters could also open bank accounts, make application for state benefits, and purchase products with an individual’s identify, as well as taking control of active financial accounts, and acquire documents like passports and driving licences in the victims’ name.
What must I be aware of?
In the aftermath of the PlayStation Network intrusion, members are being cautioned by Sony and internet security specialists to keep an eye on their bank and card statements for unusual or unpredicted transactions and also be suspicious about unsolicited phone, postal or e-mail “phishing” requesting information or providing offers that seem too good to be true.
What to do if you think you are a financial victim
Take immediate steps to report the problem – ignoring the problem or inaction may leave you liable. Where bank, finance or credit card accounts are involved immediately report any worries or irregularities to your bank or financial provider and seek their advice on what to do. They will investigate and take appropriate action. You should also contact Action Fraud via its online credit fraud reporting centre or its telephone hotline on 0300 123 2040. Additionally, if you suspect any mail redirection has been fraudulently set up for your address contact the Royal Mail.
You should be aware that for anyone who is a victim of identity theft:
• It is possible that it could result in a lock-down of your accounts making it tough or inconvenient for you to acquire loans, bank cards or perhaps a home loan until the issue is resolved.
• In line with the UK lending code and the Consumer Credit Act, if you are a victim of online fraud then you are not normally considered liable for any related debts except in cases where you acted fraudulently or negligently.
Should I check my personal credit file?
Yes. If fraudsters use your personal information to apply for financial accounts or loans in your name it can be revealed in your Credit File. Whenever an application with regard to credit score is made under a person’s name, the lending company carries out a search of the credit report to determine their credit history. The Home Office recommend acquiring a copy of your credit report as a means of safeguarding yourself against ID theft since the report will highlight any searches made by the lender – what day the research took place, what title and address it was carried out against and for what type of application. It will also show what the credit score is against your name.
You can obtain a copy of the credit file from various credit checking services, however, we recommend Experian,. If you find records from companies you don’t recognise or normally deal with, contact all of them immediately to understand the source and details of the purpose of the credit search. Additionally, keep track of your actions, including the individuals you have spoken to and the date, as well as maintain duplicates of all correspondence.
How do I help prevent this from happening again?
The Playstation Network “intrusion” is the responsibility of Sony and therefore this is something Sony system improvements must prevent. Nevertheless, everyone can help improve their own situation by changing their security passwords and ensure they don’t use the same log-ins and passwords on all online accounts – especially transactional sites like Amazon.
What do the experts say?
Graham Cluley, internet protection specialist from Sophos, said: If you are a person who uses Sony’s Playstation System right now isn’t the time to relax on your couch and do nothing at all. You have to take action now in order to minimise the chances that your identity and bank account becomes a casualty following this hack. That means, changing your security passwords, auditing all your accounts, and inform your own financial institution that as far as you’re concerned the card is now compromised.
Should I take out ID scams insurance coverage?
No. Don’t be fooled into buying expensive Identify Fraud protection through third-party companies. You can access credit history online for as little as £2, so paying another company £90 a year for insurance coverage that includes this really is not necessary. Last year, the company Which? named ID theft insurance coverage in its top ten list of ineffective insurance options.