It seems that Sony is finally beefing up security on the PlayStation Network.
Sony is planning to add two-factor authentication to the PlayStation Network, Sony confirmed to Polygon. “In order to further safeguard our users and their accounts, we are preparing to offer a 2-step verification feature,” a Sony representative stated. The spokesperson did not give a time frame, only saying that “more details will be shared at a later date.”
The PlayStation 3’s firmware was updated to version 4.80 yesterday. Users noticed that if they entered the wrong login information, the system mentioned two-step verification. This feature is not currently available on PlayStation Network accounts. Those accounts are tied to a number of platforms, including the PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Vita, and the PlayStation mobile app.
Two-factor authentication is a process that requires users to enter two different factors when logging into a service. Usually this means “something you know” (your login details) as well as a second piece of information from your phone. This is typically a six-digit code generated by a mobile app or received in a text message. After you sign in with your login information, you must also type in the second code in order to complete the login process. Two-factor authentication is much more secure than a password alone, as it means that a hacker would also need your phone in order to access your account.
Sony’s confirmation of adding two-factor authentication comes five years after a major hack of the PlayStation Network. The attack forced Sony to shut down the PlayStation Network for 23 days as they rebuilt the network to bring it back online.