PlayStation Account Locked: Why and How to Get Back In

PlayStation locks accounts after suspicious activity or many failed sign-ins. Reset your password from the email PlayStation sends, then turn on 2-step.

Why accounts get locked

• Several wrong passwords.
• A sign-in from an unusual place or device.
• Signs your password was leaked elsewhere.
• Payment or purchase activity that looks unusual.

Unlock steps

1. Check your email for a message from PlayStation about the lock.
2. Use the link to reset your password, or choose Trouble signing in? on the sign-in page.
3. Set a strong, new password.
4. Sign in on your console and other devices again.

No email received

Locked versus suspended

A lock protects the account; a suspension is a penalty for breaking the rules. If the message says suspended, password resets will not lift it. Read PlayStation's email about the suspension for the reason and any options.

After unlocking

• Turn on 2-step verification.
• Sign out of all devices from account settings.
• Check transactions and saved payment methods.
• Make sure your primary console is yours.

Short waits help

Some locks after too many wrong passwords lift after a short wait. Rather than trying again at once, wait about an hour, then reset your password using the link on the sign-in page.

See PlayStation 2FA.

Can't reset at all

If the email was changed by someone else, contact PlayStation Support. See PlayStation account recovery.

Phishing

Fake emails claiming your PlayStation account is locked often link to copycat pages. Type the PlayStation website address yourself rather than clicking links in unexpected messages.

Children's accounts

For child accounts in a family, the family manager can help reset settings. The child's sign-in email still receives the reset link.

Check your saved payment methods

If the lock followed purchases you did not make, remove saved cards, ask PlayStation Support about the charges, and tell your card issuer. Turn on the option to require a password for purchases on your console.

If you share the console with family, make sure each person has their own account and sign-in, so one person's password mistakes do not lock everyone's games.

FAQ

Why is my PlayStation account locked?

Suspicious activity or many failed sign-ins.

How do I unlock my PlayStation account?

Reset the password from PlayStation's email or sign-in page.

Is a locked account the same as a ban?

No, a suspension is a penalty; a lock is for security.

Related: PlayStation recovery · PlayStation 2FA · Microsoft account locked.