Sony to offer PSN users free identity theft protection for one year

In the latest turn of events involving the theft of personal data for millions of PlayStation Network users, Sony has announced that it is partnering with Debix to offer 12 months of identity theft protection free of charge. Debix's "AllClear ID" protection will be made available to PSN and Qriocity account holders in the US, with the console maker "working to make similar programs available in other countries/territories where applicable."

Sony says that users should be receiving offer emails "over the next few days" containing a promotional code for Debix's service, after which they'll have until June 18 to sign up. It's not stated whether this offer extends to users who create PSN accounts once the service goes back online, or only to those who had accounts before the outage, but we're following up with Sony for clarification.

Under the AllClear ID plan, users will be alerted if their private data turns up on criminal websites or during law enforcement raids, have "priority access to licensed private investigators and identity restoration specialists" and will receive up to $1 million in compensation if their stolen data is used fraudulently within 12 months of sign-up.

We've included the full rundown on what the service will offer after the break.

Features of the AllClear ID service being offered will include:

Cyber monitoring and surveillance of the Internet to detect exposure of an AllClear ID Plus customer's personal information, including monitoring of criminal web sites and data recovered by law enforcement. If his/her personal information is found, the customer will be alerted by phone and/or email and will be provided advice and support regarding protective steps to take. The customer will also receive monthly identity status reports. Debix works with an alliance of cyber-crime experts from the government, academia and industry to provide these services.

Priority access to licensed private investigators and identity restoration specialists. If an AllClear ID Plus customer receives an alert, or otherwise suspects that he/she may be the victim of identity theft, the customer can speak directly, on a priority basis, with an on-staff licensed private investigator, who will conduct a comprehensive inquiry. In the case of an identity theft, the customer can work with an identity restoration specialist to contact creditors and others, and take necessary steps to restore the customer's identity.

A $1 million identity theft insurance policy per user to provide additional protection in the event that an AllClear ID Plus customer becomes a victim of identity theft. This insurance would provide financial relief of up to $1 million for covered identity restoration costs, legal defense expenses, and lost wages that occur within 12 months after the stolen identity event.