Hobbies And Interests
Closed Account
If Sony detects unauthorized activity within your account, such as sign-in attempts, the account will be shut down while Sony works with you to verify account information and ensure that your personal information and files aren't at risk. In October 2011, Sony shut down 93,000 accounts after detecting unauthorized sign-in attempts. Closed accounts are reopened only after Sony ensures that personal information is no longer at risk and passwords are reset to stop the leakage of hacked information in the future.
Lost Access
If your PS3 is hacked and Sony detects the problem, your console loses access to the PlayStation Network. In the spring 2011 debacle, the PlayStation Network was closed for nearly three weeks while Sony reconfigured information and set new security for users. During that time, you could access games on the console that had been saved or were on disc media but couldn't access the network to play online, download new media or even access Netflix.
Information Leak
When your PlayStation 3 is hacked, the biggest concern is your personal information. A hacked PS3 offers sensitive information such as your credit card number, address and full name. Armed with that information, a hacker could assume your identity to run fraudulent charges on your card almost anywhere. That's why your information is reset in the event of a hacking. By changing your password, credit card number and other information, a hacker can't access your account further.
What to Do
If you suspect your PS3 has been hacked or Sony has alerted you to the possibility of unauthorized activity, put your bank on alert. Contact the financial institution linked to your PlayStation Network credit card and let it know there was a possible breach and to monitor your account. Then, use your account settings to change your password to bar further hacking. Sony might also take steps, such as shutting down the network or requesting an information reset, so watch your email account for correspondence.