Nintendo has confirmed over 160,000 accounts have been compromised in a hack attempt on its Network ID system. Login IDs, passwords, and possible access to user’s PayPal accounts seem to be the motive. Immediately following the hack Nintendo disabled the NNID system and is expected to send out emails to affected users upon investigation completion.
Even if you do not expect your account has been compromised you are urged to change your password immediately. Its also suggested that you enable two-factor authentication on your accounts.
Nintendo has issued a statement with instructions and an FAQ following the discontinuation of the Nintendo Network ID system.
Nintendo Network ID Sign-In Discontinuation to Nintendo Account
We would like to provide an update on the recent incidents of unauthorized access to some Nintendo Accounts.
While we continue to investigate, we would like to reassure users that there is currently no evidence pointing toward a breach of Nintendo’s databases, servers or services. As one action in our ongoing investigation, we are discontinuing the ability to use a Nintendo Network ID to sign in to a Nintendo Account. All other options to sign in to a Nintendo Account remain available.
As a further precaution, we will soon contact users about resetting passwords for Nintendo Network IDs and Nintendo Accounts that we have reason to believe were accessed without authorization.
In addition, we continue to strongly encourage users to enable 2-Step Verification for their Nintendo Account.
If any users become aware of unauthorized activity, we encourage them to follow the steps in the Nintendo Account recovery process.
During the investigation, in order to deter further attempts of unauthorized sign-ins, we will not reveal more information about the methods employed to gain unauthorized access.
We apologize for the inconvenience and concerns caused to our customers, and we will continue working hard to safeguard the security of our users’ data.
FAQ
How do I sign in to my Nintendo Account if I previously used a Nintendo Network ID?
If you are having difficulties signing in to your Nintendo Account and previously used a Nintendo Network ID, information is available on accessing your Nintendo Account.
Can I still link my Nintendo Network ID to my Nintendo Account?
Yes, you can still link/unlink a Nintendo Network ID and combine your Nintendo eShop balances.
Can my Nintendo Network ID still be used to sign in on Nintendo 3DS or Wii U systems?
Yes, a Nintendo Network ID can still be used to sign in to a Nintendo 3DS family system and/or a Wii U system.
What should I do if I know or suspect that my account has been accessed by an unauthorized user?
If your account has been compromised or accessed by an unauthorized user, recover your Nintendo Account.
To enhance the security of your Nintendo Account, set up 2-Step Verification.
