PlayStation DRM Bug Sparks Fears Over Digital Game Access
A PlayStation DRM issue has raised concerns among PS4 and PS5 owners regarding the security of their digital game purchases. According to reports from players and content creators, some newly purchased digital games are displaying a 30-day validity timer that requires an active internet connection to verify the license. If a console doesn’t connect online within 30 days, the game license is reportedly removed.
The issue gained significant traction on social media after a viral tweet claimed the feature had been “rolled out to all PS4 and PS5 digital games,” sparking widespread alarm about digital game ownership. The problem has been linked to PlayStation firmware version 13.5, though the exact cause remains unclear.
However, key details remain inconsistent and unconfirmed. Testing by journalists has only replicated the timer on some PS4 games purchased in recent weeks, and the issue has not been confirmed on PS5 despite some social media claims. Additionally, no official statement has been released by Sony, and there are suggestions the issue may already have been resolved for some users.
The incident highlights longstanding concerns within the gaming community about digital ownership and game preservation, particularly regarding DRM restrictions that could potentially limit access to purchased content. Until Sony provides clarification, the exact scope and intentionality of this change remains uncertain.