According to numerous reports, custom firmware is now available for Sony’s PlayStation 3, effectively opening up the platform to widespread piracy.

In the last week, two hackers have exposed the console. One, who goes by the alias Geohot, has released what he claims to be the PlayStation 3 root key, which will allow others to create homebrew software, reports gaming website VG247.

“No donate link, just use this info wisely. I do not condone piracy,” said Geohot in a message.

“If you want your next console to be secure, get in touch with me. Any of you three. It’d be fun to be on the other side.”

Another hacker by the alias of KaKaRoTo has released software tools that allow users to create custom firmware via Linux. He says that these tools are “really meant for future homebrew installation” and are not intended to “allow piracy.”

Speaking with Edge magazine, Sony has said, "We are aware of this, and are currently looking into it. We will fix the issues through network updates, but because this is a security issue, we are not able to provide you with any more details."

Even so, exposing the PlayStation 3’s root key and facilitating custom firmware means that Sony’s console “is now completely, and irrevocably, cracked,” writes VG247.