Since the beginning of April, Nintendo console owners have reported that their accounts had been hacked. It isn't just a small handful of users, though, as it has been confirmed that over 160,000 accounts were affected by these hacking attempts.
The information revealed above was shared on the official Nintendo Support of Japan website, where the company also mentions that they are still investigating this whole dilemma with the Nintendo Network ID; revealing that the Sign-In feature will be discontinued.
"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."
Many users may not even have a Nintendo Network ID account, since the Nintendo Switch no longer uses that system; opting for a regular Nintendo Account, instead.
The Nintendo Network ID was required to access online features(online multiplayer and eShop purchases) on the Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo Wii U, but users could link both the Nintendo Network ID and Nintendo Account to share friends and funds; the latter being the main reason why these hackings have been occuring.
Nintendo does encourage users to use the 2-Step Verification method to secure their Nintendo Account, although it is worth mentioning that it does require that users download the Google Authenticator app — which, quite frankly, still does seem like one too many steps that some users may not be willing to take.
"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," Nintendo's announcement continues.
Nintendo then apologises to users for any inconveniences, and promises that they will continue working hard to safeguard the security of their users' data.