Big Brother is watching: Sony can tap into your PSN conversations
Got your trusty PS3 headset? Or maybe you’re thinking of getting that wireless keypad to have an easier time chatting on PlayStation Home? Now in case you just missed it last week, Sony updated their Terms of Use for the PlayStation Network. Apparently, not only did Sony state that they can use your content without asking for your permission; reading the finer print now, it turns out that Sony has the right (given that you agree to the Terms, of course) to tap into your PSN convos.
In case you just missed it last week, Sony updated their Terms of Use for the PlayStation Network.
Apparently, not only did Sony state that they can use your content without asking for your permission; reading the finer print now, it turns out that Sony now has the right (given that you agree to the Terms, of course) to tap into your PSN convos. Though it wasn’t specified, we presume this is applicable to both voice chat or text.
SCEA reserves the right to monitor and record any online activity and communication throughout PSN and you give SCEA your express consent to monitor and record your activities. SCEA reserves the right to remove any content and communication from PSN at SCEA’s sole discretion without further notice to you. Any data collected in this way, including the content of your communications, the time and location of your activities, your Online ID and IP address and other related information may be used by us to enforce this Agreement or protect the interests of SCEA, its users, or licensors. Such information may be disclosed to the appropriate authorities or agencies. Any other use is subject to the terms of the applicable Privacy Policy.
A mouthful indeed, but in short, it’s basically: “we’re watching you.” This is what’s apparently at issue now though. As GameDaily points out, this throws concern over everyone’s right to free speech – what with a sense of intrusion from Sony, folks talking over PSN might feel restricted and uncomfortable, maybe even violated.
I wonder though… maybe this ToS/ToU update was prompted because Sony heard of the Pentagon‘s research into how MMOs can be used by terrorists? They did, after all, make a bold statement about forwarding your conversations “to the appropriate authorities or agencies.” Sounds serious, eh?
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