Has no one noticed the very close proximity to Sony's heavy handed legal actions and the hacking of their network? I would think that they would have gotten the message by now. As the fine people of Extra Credits put it: Sony, you do not go to war with the kind of people who install Linux on their Playstations.
If I had to guess, I would say that this entire event was triggered by Sony's own actions. They have conducted themselves with all the grace of a bull in a china shop, and angered some very smart and dedicated people.
As for people hating on the hackers, I will say this: Do you really think that the type of people who would be capable of doing this aren't gamers? Do you really think none of them are effected by the PSN shutdown? Do you honestly believe that none of them have a Playstation that they love to play just as much as any of us? I don't think so.
Note that as far as we know, none of the information that was taken has been used. According to the information we have, none of the credit card numbers have been abused... not one. So effectively, yes, the hackers have inconvenienced us, but no more than they have inconvenienced themselves. What they have really done is sent a message to Sony. A message I hope they pay attention to.
So go ahead. Hate on the hackers. As they risk legal action to stand up for the rights of consumers, I am sure that they appreciate the support from the very people who stand to benefit from the risks that they have taken. What they did was actually act on the frustration and outrage that so many do nothing but whine and complain about. SO... as long as none of the information that was taken is used, I stand behind these people completely. If ever it IS used, then the motivations behind these actions cease to be altruistic, and I will completely withdraw my support. But until that time, the only thing I have to say to the hackers is thanks... and the only thing I have to say to Sony is "Do you get it yet?"
and yet he looks like an older Bobby Kotick 
