Sony’s PlayStation Network is back online after being out of commission since Christmas Eve due to an alleged hacking attack.

PSN Suffered “Attack”

In a statement released by vice president of Sonly Entertainment Catherine Jensen called the four-day network drop an “Attack,” saying, “PlayStaton Network and some other gaming services were attacked over the holidays with artificially high levels of traffic designed to disrupt connectivity and online gameplay.”

The connectivity problem lasted through Christmas, causing a potentially huge loss for Sony, as many receiving PlayStations as gifts were unable to play. Users on Twitter voiced their frustration with the gaming company over the holiday weekend.

Xbox Also Down, Denies Cyber Attack

Microsoft’s Xbox Live also suffered terrible connection problems over the holiday, but they refused to comment on what caused the issue and denied suffering any kind of attack. “We have no evidence of a security breach. Yesterday, some users were unable to sign in to Xbox Live. Our teams worked throughout the holiday to resolve the issue, and Xbox Live core services have now been restored,” Microsoft said.

While Xbox Live was able to re-establish a connection on Friday, the PlayStation network was only repaired on Saturday night, and users on Twitter continued to complain about the connection on Monday, Dec. 29.

Lizard Squad Claims Responsibility

A hacker group called Lizard Squad reportedly claimed to be behind the attacks on PlayStation and Xbox Live. Alleged members of the Lizard Squad told reporters that they are not interested in stealing personal information, but only want to expose big corporations’ weak spots.

“Well, one of our biggest goals is to have fun, of course. But we’re also exposing massive security issues with these companies people are trusting their personal information with. The customers of these companies should be rather worried,” a Lizard Squad member told The Washington Post.

The validity of Lizard Squad’s claims remains in question and it’s unclear whether or not the PlayStation attack has any connection to the massive Sony Hack by the Guardians o Peace.

Article by Olivia Truffaut-Wong

Olivia Truffaut-Wong was born and raised in Berkeley, California, where she developed her love of all things entertainment. After moving to New York City to earn her degree in Film Studies, she stayed on the East Coast to follow her passion and become an entertainment writer. She lives on a diet of television, movies and food.