George Osborne describes Sony network breach as 'high profile example of net dangers'
The disastrous PlayStation Network breach has prompted reaction from the second most powerful person in British politics.
Chancellor George Osborne yesterday told an audience in London that all online service providers must learn from the infamous PSN hack.
“The hacking into Sony’s online PlayStation Network, and the theft of millions of users’ credit card details, is a high profile example of the need for robust online security” Osborne said.
Sony has already stated it is unclear of the credit card data of more than ten million users was taken.
But the data breach looks likely to be a lingering embarrassment Sony’s entertainment business – and a prime reference point for speeches and discussions about online security.
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Osborne demonstrated that fact, saying yesterday that “this age of digitised public services creates challenges alongside opportunities – the challenge of ensuring the security of personal data and financial information.”
Osborne’s speech comes days after culture minister Ed Vaizey said Sony must now make security its clear priority.
At an event last week, Vaizey told Develop: “Clearly, as more and more companies move their products online – with more and more customers handing over their details – data protection is going to have to be a number one priority.”
“The Information Commission has been given new powers to issue fines where necessary. I know the ICO has been in touch with Sony and clearly this is a huge issue, Sony getting hacked and people’s data being stolen.”
The PlayStation Network was hacked between April 17th and 19th, compromising details of over 77 million registered users.
The service is now in the process of fully returning back online.
[TIMELINE – THE PSN ATTACK AND COLLAPSE]
I say people in the governments around the worls should be held accountable for these hacks. Why aren't they creating laws that help catch hackers? It's time for governments to work together. I know the FBI is working on this case. What's the British government doing to help?
Laws stop nothing or catch anyone. It just creates an offense that they can be done for.
But it is become time to do a serious review on Computer Missuse Act and Communications Act.
