Sony implemented a new Digital Rights Management (DRM) system for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. A silent firmware update requires consoles to connect to the internet every 30 days. This connection validates licenses for newly purchased digital games.
Games become inaccessible if the console fails to validate licenses within the 30-day window. Access restores once the user reconnects to the internet.
Sony released the update without a formal announcement. The policy change drew criticism from users with limited internet access.