Network Intrusion

When data is placed onto the Internet, it is not always secure.  Sony's network is a good example of that.  Two weeks ago, Sony's Playstation Network (PSN) and Qriocity services were infiltrated by hackers looking to steal information about Sony's customers.  Sony was alerted about the intrusion, through their security system, and shut down their networks.  However, they were too late.  Hackers were able to steal information ranging from customers' addresses, email addresses, and credit card information.  Millions of PSN users' data were compromised.  Sony held a press conference earlier this week regarding this intrusion.  They stated that although data was stolen, credit card information was encrypted, so hackers would not be able to decode that data into anything useful.  Customers' addresses and other data however, were not.  This attack on Sony's networks is not only bad for customers but for Sony as well.  Their reputation of being a reliable brand is lowered due to the attack and people question their integrity of security measures.  Lawsuits may also occur because Sony did not handle the data securely and the FBI is currently investigating the whole situation.

Comic from Penny Arcade

We should, however, be reminded that this can happen to any site or service on the Internet.  A few months ago, news and media site, Gawker and its sister sites were compromised.  Only usernames and passwords were stolen.  However, if these usernames and passwords were also used in bank accounts and other more important sites, hackers can steal more than just information.  To safeguard ourselves, passwords should be differentiated according to four tiers:

Tier 1: Online Banking
This tier should have a really complex password as this account is linked to actual money.  A mix of numbers, upper and lowercase letters would be best.

Tier 2: Primary Email Accounts, E-Commerce Accounts (i.e. Amazon, Ebay)
This tier should have complex passwords as well because lost passwords would be linked back to your primary email accounts and websites were you shop have your credit card information.

Tier 3: Social Networking Sites, Blog sites
This tier would need less complex passwords.  However, it is still good to have a strong password as these sites reflect your reputation online as well as in real life.  Safeguarding these with a good password is not a bad idea.

Tier 4: Fun sites, News Sites (i.e. Hulu, Engadget)
In this tier, passwords can be the same throughout the tier as it would be easier to remember.  If a hacker does get your password, all he or she has access to are sites that are for consuming media only.  It would not be of any use to them.

As Internet users, we should be reminded that data can be compromised and keep passwords strong.  Although it may seem like a hassle, having multiple passwords, it would save a lot of hassle in the long run especially if you get hacked.