PlayStation accounts get extra layer of security with 2-step verification feature

Sony Interactive Entertainment has introduced the much needed two-factor authentication to secure PlayStation accounts. The extra layer of security will help to keep hackers at bay.

The two-step verification works by linking the phone number of the account holder. It requires the user to enter a code texted on sign-in to the registered mobile number.

It was crucial for Sony to bring this process as PlayStation accounts hold credit card details, billing address and other personal information. In 2011, hackers had targeted around 77 million PlayStation accounts.

Now, data will be safe from prying eyes even if the password is compromised. The two-step verification is optional and players need to activate it if they want the second layer of security.

Here are how to activate the 2-Step Verification (2SV) process:

Sign out of PlayStation Network on all your devices and now when you try to sign in from PS4, Bravia, web browser or PlayStation App (PS App), players will be asked the following,

Step One: Account password and sign-in ID (email address)

Step Two: Verification code that we text to your authorised mobile phone (we only use your mobile number for account security).

Here is what users will get when they sign in on other PlayStation system or Sony device:

Step One: account sign-in ID (email address)

Step Two: device setup password.

Here is a guide to activate 2-step verification process using PS4:

(Users will need the following)

• Your master/sub account sign-in ID (email address) and password.
• A mobile phone on which you can receive text messages and access internet.
• A PS4

1. Go to [Settings] > [PlayStation Network/Account Management] > [Account Information] > [Security] > [2-Step Verification] > [Set Up Now].
2. Carefully enter your mobile number and select [Add].
3. You will receive a verification code by text - enter this to authorise your mobile number to receive 2SV texts.
4. Select [Activate] to switch on 2SV.
5. We advise you to make a note of your 10 backup codes now in case of sign-in issues. Go to [Settings] > [PlayStation Network/Account Management] > [Account Information] > [Security] > [Two-Step Verification] > [Backup Codes] to find them.

Here is a guide to deactivate 2-step verification process:

1. Go to [Settings] > [PlayStation Network/Account Management] > [Account Information] > [Security] > [2-Step Verification] > [Status].
2. From the drop-down menu select [Inactive] > [Confirm].

1. 2SV is now switched off on your account.

Here is a guide on how to add mobile number:

Users will be able to add two mobile numbers but only one can selected to get 2-step verification texts. In order to update the mobile number, we need to add a new number by removing the old one.

To add a mobile number:

1. Go to [Settings] > [PlayStation Network/Account Management] > [Account Information] > [Security] > [2-Step Verification] > [Mobile Phone].
2. Enter your mobile number and select [Add].
3. Remove your mobile number

To remove a mobile number:

1. Go to [Settings] > [PlayStation Network/Account Management] > [Account Information] > [Security] > [2-Step Verification] > [Mobile Phone].
2. Select the mobile number you want to delete and select [Remove]