With PSN users right to be worried about the security threat posed by the attack on the PlayStation Network last week, we’ve put together a guide to give you tips on what you should do next, and what to do if you notice any fraudulent activity on your account.
By following our guide, you should have all the details on what to look out for and where to report any malicious activity on your bank account that is connected with the PSN, or indeed any future suspicious activity involving your finances.
The first thing you should do…
1. If you can, contact your bank and cancel the card that you have registered on the PlayStation Network.
2. Re-set your password via the PlayStation Network. You cannot do this until the Network is back online.
In order to reset your PlayStation Network password, you must have the following information:
• PlayStation Network Sign-in ID (email address)
• Date of Birth
If you wish to reset the password on the PlayStation 3, you must also know the answer to your secret question.
To reset your password, go to ‘Sign-In’ under the PlayStation Network symbol. Click on ‘Forgot Your Password?’ and follow the instructions.
There’s nothing more you can do to protect yourself from fraudulent activity at this point. It’s likely that if your data has been stolen, the criminals responsible will already have your name, date of birth, email and your address. There’s a lot they can do with that basic information.
With the help of the UK’s Fraud Prevention Service, here are some indications that your details may be being used for fraudulent activity.
Are your PSN details being used for fraudulent activity?
Keep an eye out for the following…
• post expected from your bank has not arrived or you are receiving no post at all
• you identify entries on your personal credit file from organisations you do not normally deal with
• items have appeared on your bank or credit-card statements that you do not recognise
• you applied for a state benefit but are told that you are already claiming
• you receive bills, invoices or receipts addressed to you for goods or services you haven’t asked for
• you have been refused a financial service, such as a credit card or a loan, despite having a good credit history
• a mobile-phone contract has been set up in your name without your knowledge
• you have received letters from solicitors or debt collectors for debts that aren’t yours
• suspicious emails involving transactions, or asking you for money or passwords.
• financial institutions that you do not normally deal with contact you to chase an outstanding debt.
If you notice any of these activities or have any suspicions that your details are being used you need to report it immediately.
Who should you report PSN-related fraud to?
1. This is a crime. You should first contact your local police station. You’ll then be given a criminal reference number, which you can quote to other organizations you may have to contact.
2. Your bank. If this is related to your bank account, phone your bank immediately and report the issue.
3. After you’ve completed the first two steps, contact The National Fraud Reporting Centre. Their direct number is : 0300 123 2040. They’ll give you further advice on how to proceed
4. Log your problem with Sony PlayStation Customer Services – 08705 998877
If you believe that someone has used your personal details fraudulently, you can contact any one of the three credit reference agencies and receive assistance in resolving credit report related problems caused by identity fraud.
In the U.K. you only need to contact one of the following…
Callcredit
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0870 060 1414
Experian
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0844 481 8000
Equifax
Queries can be sent to Equifax via their support website https://equifaxuk.custhelp.com/.
Phone: 0800 121 4752
Even if you haven’t been a victim, it may well be worth obtaining your credit reference in a couple of month’s time just to see if there’s any activity you may have missed.