Eurogamer is reporting that the password reset system for Sony’s PlayStation Network service is susceptible to exploitation by potential hackers.
According to video evidence viewed by the site, the exploit allows someone to freely change your password using the information obtained in the recent cyber attack on Sony’s online service last month – namely, your PSN account email and password.
Earlier today, Sony removed the ability to sign in to PSN via a number of websites including PlayStation.com and the Official PlayStation Forums. Perhaps most alarming, however, is that the password reset email directs users to a website that’s presently offlline.
"Unfortunately this also means that those who are still trying to change their password via Playstation.com or Qriocity.com will be unable to do so for the time being," said the company. "This is due to essential maintenance and at present it is unclear how long this will take.
"In the meantime you will still be able to sign into PSN via your PlayStation 3 and PSP devices to connect to game services and view Trophy/Friends information."
The hardware manufacturer later offered another update via Twitter, stating, "Clarification: this maintenance doesn’t affect PSN on consoles, only the website you click through to from the password change email."
News of the alleged exploit first surfaced on Nyleveia.com, which issued the following recommendation to all PSN users:
"I would suggest that you secure your accounts now by creating a completely new email that you will not use ANYWHERE ELSE, and switching your PSN account to use this new email.”
"You risk having your account stolen, when this hack becomes more public, if you do not make sure that your PSN account’s email is one that cannot be affiliated with or otherwise traced to you."
Furthermore, the site added that it contacted Sony regarding the issue, after which the system was swiftly taken offline. "The system went down approximately 15 minutes after I received a response from SCEE on the matter."
The claims were also backed up by popular gaming forum NeoGAF. Stay tuned for more developments as they break.