Sony Considering Move to Turn Online Network Back On for U.S. Gamers

Sony Corp SNE is considering the return of its online games network on Tuesday, Kyodo news agency said on Friday. The news comes after Sony's online PlayStation network was breached last month. The company notified users that personal information was likely exposed, but could not confirm if credit card and other sensitive material was stolen. Sony spokeswoman Yoshiko Uchiyama declined to confirm the report. The wildly popular network has been a vital source of attraction for new gaming sales. Gamers can connect with friends and strangers from around the world to play their favorite games. According to a Reuters report, "The company has been gradually restoring access, starting with its PlayStation network in the United States, after it fell victim to one of the biggest cyber attacks ever. Sony has since come under fire for lax security and for not disclosing the breach sooner." Sony's original announcement included an ominous notification. On April 26, Patrick Seybold, Senior Director, Corporate Communications & Social Media noted that "While there is no evidence at this time that credit card data was taken, we cannot rule out the possibility. If you have provided your credit card data through PlayStation Network or Qriocity, out of an abundance of caution we are advising you that your credit card number (excluding security code) and expiration date may have been obtained." Sony is engaged in the development, design, manufacture, and sale of various kinds of electronic equipment, instruments, and devices for consumer, professional and industrial markets, as well as game consoles and software. Shares closed lower by $0.58, or 2%, on Thursday, to $27.22.