PLAYSTATION owners are being urged to check their settings – or risk a hacking nightmare.
There’s a simple setting that can protect you from criminals, and it doesn’t cost a penny to turn on.
Make sure your PS5 has the safest security settings switched on[/caption]
Your PlayStation account is extremely valuable.
If hackers break into it, they could lock you out and sell it on.
Or they could rack up fraudulent purchases using your log-in.
Thankfully there’s an option to add two-factor authentication that can save you from a world of trouble.
It adds an extra layer of security to your account by requesting a one-use code for logging in.
That means even someone who knows your password can’t get into your account with those log-in details alone.
Worse still, if you don’t set it up and hackers break in, they can set up two-factor authentication and keep you blocked from your own account.
In a Reddit thread urging PS5 owners to set up two-factor authentication, one user replied: “Just got hacked today, hackers took my account and enabled 2FA on it cause I didn’t.
“Waiting for tomorrow morning to call and get it taken care of.”
How to set up two-factor authentication on PS5
There are two options for setting up two-factor authentication.
The first is to use an authenticator app: Sony suggests Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, or Authy.
These apps generate self-destructing codes that let you log in to your PlayStation account.
The second option is text message, which involves sending you a verification code via SMS.
Authentication apps are generally considered safer, but you’ll have to make your own mind up.
To set up two-factor authentication, boot up your PS5 and then go to Settings.
Now tap Users and Accounts > Security > 2-Step Verification.
Then choose Activate and choose to set up an Authenticator app or SMS verification.
If you’re using the app, open it on your phone and scan the QR code displayed on the TV screen connected to your PS5.
You’ll then receive a verification code inside the authenticator app.
If you’re using text message, enter your mobile number and wait for an SMS message.
Enter this verification code, and then make sure to record your Backup Codes somewhere safe.