TOKYO – Sony has suspended thousands of PlayStation Network (PSN) accounts linked to Russian users in a major crackdown on efforts to bypass regional restrictions. The move comes as part of Sony’s push to enforce service limitations following its 2022 exit from the Russian market.
After suspending official operations in Russia due to geopolitical tensions, Sony had blocked access to PlayStation Plus (PS Plus) and other digital services. However, many Russian gamers continued using the platform by relying on foreign billing addresses, VPNs, and international payment methods.
Recently, Sony intensified enforcement by tracking IP addresses to detect account usage from within Russian territory. As a result, both new and long-time PlayStation users in Russia are finding their accounts suspended—often without any prior notice or explanation.
Affected gamers have expressed frustration, noting that they lost access to valuable libraries built over several years. Some users reported spending hundreds of dollars on games, only to have their accounts disappear overnight due to the sudden enforcement.
Sony’s actions appear aimed at complying with global sanctions and strengthening control over its regional services. The company’s firm stance reflects broader challenges facing the Russian gaming community amid growing international isolation.
Meanwhile, gamers across Russia continue voicing concerns on forums and social media, calling for clearer communication from Sony. As enforcement continues, the company has yet to issue a public statement directly addressing individual suspensions.