Sony has launched a large-scale crackdown on Russian PlayStation accounts, sparking outrage among users. The action primarily targets accounts registered outside Russia—in countries like Turkey, Kazakhstan, and Ukraine—used to bypass official restrictions. This enforcement, part of broader PlayStation restrictions, leaves many Russian gamers locked out of their purchased content.
Bypassing Backfires
After Sony withdrew from the Russian market in 2022, Russian players found workarounds to continue accessing PlayStation services. Many created accounts in foreign regions to subscribe to PlayStation Plus and purchase games. But now, Sony has tightened controls. The company reportedly uses IP address checks to identify and block such accounts.
User Complaints Rise
Russian media report a growing number of complaints from users who say their accounts were suddenly blocked. Some of these accounts held libraries of games worth thousands of rubles. Players are now trying to contact Sony support, but their efforts have seen little success. Support staff reportedly confirm the blocks but offer no solutions.
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Sony’s Continued Exit from Russia
Sony’s crackdown is not new. The company halted console sales and services in Russia following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This latest wave of enforcement seems aimed at closing the remaining loopholes that allowed Russian users to access restricted services through foreign accounts.
Frustration in the Gaming Community
The gaming community in Russia is expressing frustration, especially among those who spent significant money on digital games. The inability to access purchased content has fueled calls for clearer policies or even refunds. However, Sony has remained silent beyond the enforcement measures.
A Shifting Digital Landscape
As geopolitical tensions shape tech policies, Sony’s actions reflect a broader trend in digital enforcement. Companies are increasingly cracking down on circumvention of regional restrictions. For Russian gamers, the PlayStation experience continues to shrink, with few options left for those trying to stay connected.
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