Ps3 – Protect PS3 from hacking and sabotage

ps3

SOS. I just loaned my PS3 to an acquaintance of dubious integrity (for reasons of diplomacy and political correctness. Please don't ask. Long story.) Is there any way that I can determine if my unit has been tampered with (aside from examining the exterior for physical damage)? Is it possible to install self-destructing software or malware, virus, etc. on a PS3? Can my PSN account be hacked through the unauthorized use of my PS3? How can I protect my unit?

Best Answer

I'm not really sure if this question belongs here, but I'll try to give you an answer. It's not one you'll like, though. Generally speaking, if someone with malicious intent (and relevant skills) has physical access to your system, all bets are off and many different attacks are possible.

For example, they could replace the software with something that looks the same but sends account information to another computer, they could cause the electronics (hardware) to short-out, overheat or otherwise modify them, they could even install a tiny pinpoint camera that is very hard for you to find.

If your PSN account was already logged in, he could impersonate you online and get you banned, buy things with stored credit card details, etc.

There are many good reasons why physical access to sensitive machines should be guarded closely. 'Diplomacy and political correctness' aside, you should never give someone you don't trust access to your PC/PS3/phone/tablet/credit card/medical details/house/pacemaker. This is why we lock our doors at night.

Now, you might be being over-cautious or just feeling a bit paranoid, but if you're truly worried about the system being compromised, you should:

  1. Do a factory reset to ensure the software is correct
  2. Take your PS3 to a repair shop and ask them to check that the hardware is intact and unmodified
  3. Check your credit card details to ensure nothing was bought without your permission
  4. Check your PSN activity (I'm not sure if there's a log or something anywhere) and change your password
  5. Don't lend your stuff to people you don't trust!

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