Abstract:
PlayStation users who use pirated or homebrew software are faced with a choice. Sony now requires users to install the latest firmware version 14.10 before they can log into PSN. This means that PS5 consoles that use jailbreak programs or exploit tools may not be able to play purchased games online or use network functions if the system is not updated.
A user on the PS5homebrew forum shared what happened when a console running firmware version 14.00 tried to log in to a PSN account: without updating the system software, it could only use the offline function.
The Relapse PS5 jailbreak tool has been modified and now supports version 13.60 system software. After gaining read and write permissions to the kernel, users can run unofficial applications. What worries Sony even more is that this also opens the door to piracy and running game backups.
The Byepervisor Reborn exploit tool is also becoming increasingly popular. Like Relapse, the tool for bypassing hypervisors was functional until the arrival of firmware version 14.00, which was released on September 16. Subsequently, Sony launched version 14.10 on October 1, adding more unspecified security fixes.
Homebrew enthusiasts on Reddit have been avoiding newer firmware versions. Some people keep their consoles offline, others continue to use PSN functionality. However, the latter approach is no longer feasible and they have to make a difficult choice. The alternative is to wait and hope that exploit tool developers discover new vulnerabilities.
Without a network connection, multiplayer modes in PS4 and PS5 games often cannot function properly. If the digital license cannot be verified, the game may even fail to load at all. Consoles using the PS5 jailbreak tool also cannot access the PlayStation Store.
Requiring PSN users to update their systems is nothing new. However, there are other signs that Sony may have noticed an increase in piracy. The disappearance of homebrew app Overdrive has sparked speculation about whether Sony Interactive Entertainment has issued a cease-and-desist notice to it. The store once provided backup copies of popular games for users to download.
Counterfeit products soon appeared in unauthorized Overdrive stores. Still, publishers may be starting to realize the threat posed by jailbreaking. Data mining results show that although "GTA6" is mainly played as a single player, the game will still require the console to run version 14.10 system software when it is released.
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