Reports are flooding in from Russian PlayStation users claiming widespread account suspensions. The issue appears to be affecting accounts registered in Russia, as well as those in other regions like Türkiye, Kazakhstan, and even Ukraine.
Circumventing Restrictions Leads to Bans
Sony’s actions are reportedly aimed at combating the circumvention of regional restrictions, specifically attempts to access PlayStation Plus subscriptions, which are officially unavailable in Russia. Since Sony’s withdrawal from the Russian market following the invasion of Ukraine, gamers have sought ways to bypass these limitations.
Users Face Frustration and Financial Loss
Many affected users are finding their attempts to contact PlayStation support futile. The most significant problems are occurring for those with purchased accounts, as Sony is actively verifying IP addresses. Some users report losing access to accounts containing thousands of rubles worth of purchased games.
Context: Sony officially exited the Russian market after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The company ceased console sales and PlayStation services in 2022 as part of international sanctions.
This move highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Russian gamers seeking access to international services and content amidst geopolitical tensions. The suspensions serve as a stark reminder of the limitations imposed following Sony’s withdrawal from the region.