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What year is it? Did George Orwell's prediction just get delayed? Seems like Sony is playing Big Brother. Sony Playstation 3 users just got an email from Sony stating that the terms of service have changed.

First noticeable change. Main account holders have to be over 15 years old. Under-15s can have a subaccount. Makes sense. No big whoop.

Here's the scary change. Sony claims to have the right to monitor and keep records of whatever you say or do online through PSN. Do you really want anyone listening in? In the heat of a game, we all probably say things we probably shouldn't.

Most of the terms of service are fine. No stalking, organizing hate groups, spamming, spreading viruses, or violating copyright. But, they want to be able to monitor and record communications? Is it just me, or is that just creepy?

Here is the questionable terms of service paragraph.

"Unless otherwise required by applicable law, there is no requirement or expectation that SCEA (Sony Computer Entertainment America, Inc.) will monitor or record any online activity on PSN, including communications. However, SCEA reserves the right to monitor and record any online activity and communication throughout PSN and you give SCEA your express consent to monitor and record your activities. SCEA reserves the right to remove any content and communication from PSN at SCEA's sole discretion without further notice to you. Any data collected in this way, including the content of your communications, the time and location of your activities, your Online ID and IP address and other related information may be used by us to enforce this Agreement or protect the interests of SCEA, its users, or licensors. Such information may be disclosed to the appropriate authorities or agencies. Any other use is subject to the terms of the applicable Privacy Policy. SCEA has no liability for any violation of this Agreement by you or by  any other player."

I'm glad I don't have a PS3. I doubt I could agree to their TOS. —Leslie Shapiro

Sony Playstation TOS