Sony working with police on PlayStation network hacking

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

“We are currently working with law enforcement on this matter as well as a recognised technology security firm to conduct a complete investigation,” Seybold said in a blog posted on Thursday on the PlayStation website. “This malicious attack against our system and against our customers is a criminal act and we are proceeding aggressively to find those responsible.”

Launched in November 2006, the PlayStation Network allows PlayStation console users to play games online, challenge others on the Internet, stream movies, or get other services.
The Japanese electronics giant said it was possible hackers had taken users’ credit card data.

“While all credit card information stored in our systems is encrypted and there is no evidence at this time that credit card data was taken, we cannot rule out the possibility,” Seybold said, warning that “...we are advising you that your credit card number and expiration date may have been obtained.”

Sony said it had emailed all 77 million users worldwide to warn them that their data may have been stolen.

Microsoft has warned users of its Xbox Live service of possible attempts to steal personal data following the PlayStation Network hack.