Sony allowed to log voice and text chat Playstation Network

Since October 15, Sony Computer Entertainment reserves the right to store voice recordings and text communications of Playstation Network users and, if necessary, to pass them on to the authorities.

Since October 15, new terms of service and a new user agreement are in effect for the users of the Playstation Network. The biggest change in the fine print appears to be in the rights that Sony gives itself to store potentially privacy-sensitive information. The manufacturer stilt in the updated terms and conditions that voice chat conversations on the Playstation Network, like text messages, can be recorded and stored without notice to the user.

Sony reports that in addition to the voice recordings and messages, online activities, times and locations and IP addresses are also tracked to “implement the Playstation Network terms of service.” Sony also declares that it will possibly pass this data on to the police or other authorities. Any user who accepts the new terms of service automatically agrees that Sony may record conversations or store messages. Sony’s new terms and conditions are not unique in this regard; in the Terms of Use for Microsoft’s Xbox Live state It has long been possible for conversations and other forms of communication to be recorded and, under certain circumstances, to be passed on to the authorities.