Insider thinks the PlayStation DRM may brick jailbroken PS5s to counter piracy

After days of confusion, a Sony representative calmed fears about a suspected new PlayStation DRM. Earlier reports suggested that digital PS5 games may become unplayable without online checks every 30 days. Although the actual requirements are less strict, an insider believes the company is intent on combating piracy.

What's behind the new DRM?

Moore’s Law Is Dead addressed the DRM controversy on a new podcast. Buyers only need to verify their PS Store purchases once, but he thinks there is more going on behind the scenes. While some of the insiders’ thoughts are speculation, he asked developers to comment on recent events.

According to the YouTuber, PlayStation consoles currently have two checks in place. The first verification happens after a gamer buys and downloads a digital title. However, at least with some PS4 and PS5 games, after 30 days, Sony performs another license check. If a player doesn’t connect to the internet by that time, or if it detects foul play, the game could be deactivated.

Even more surprising, MLID theorizes that Sony “might install some code on there to brick jailbroken systems.” He suspects that the reinforced PlayStation DRM counters breakthroughs from hackers.

One approach involves installing an app on a PS5, going offline, and using altered save game files to jailbreak the console. Then, it may be possible to install pirated titles. Additionally, nefarious individuals could exploit the vulnerability to chargeback downloaded games on the PS Store. Some observers thought that evidence of a 30-day timer was a reaction to attempted refund scams.

PS5 piracy is in its infancy

The exploit is in its early stages and offers limited benefits even for tech-savvy individuals. Nevertheless, Sony worries that it will eventually lead to a thriving hacking scene. So far, newer PlayStation consoles have avoided the widespread piracy that plagues the Nintendo Switch.

MLID noted the odd messaging surrounding the PlayStation DRM. The company’s unwillingness to provide clarity could be a sign that it’s experimenting with ways to thwart pirates. Regardless, he argues that the objective would not be to strip ownership rights. Instead, the goal is to deter gamers from attempting PS5 jailbreaks.