It was reportedly between April 17 and 19 that Sony's PlayStation Network and Qriocity services were compromised by hackers in well documented attacks that have rendered services inoperable ever since [full story]. For Mortal Kombat fans, these unfortunate events coincided with the release of the new game, which has already sold over one million copies in the US since the April 19 release. PlayStation 3 owners, of course, have yet to get the fullest experience out of their game, with online features inaccessible to date.

After almost a month of waiting, Sony have finally announced the near completion of first phase efforts to restore services and upgrade their system!

With the help of industry experts, Sony have undertaken measures to stress upgrades to security features such as increased encryption and additional firewalls, as well as an early warning detection system. These details and more have been laid out in a courtesy video message by Kazuo Hirai, Representative Corporate Executive Officer and Executive Deputy President of the Sony Corporation and CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment.

As part of security updates, PlayStation 3 users will be forced to change their PlayStation Network password using verified consoles or e-mail before accessing online services. This comes with a PS3 System Software Upgrade that all users will be encouraged to download in preparation for restored Network functionality [via PlayStation.Blog].

PlayStation.Blog now reports that all United States PSN servers should be restored and ready to host games, but users are encouraged to continue to remain patient should problems persist.

International users will need to monitor regional sources to be made aware of accessibility changes, as well as the details of Welcome Back packages of free content that Sony have issued as a sweetner for the delay. They are also offering identity theft protection programs where available, but as previously reported, users will need to exercise their own vigilance to detect any threat.

MK fans should also be reminded to exercise caution where DLC scam sites are concerned. MKO reported last week on the scams surfacing since the release of the game, which are not affiliated with Warner Brothers Interactive Entertainment or NetherRealm Studios.