PS5 Reportedly Uses Stickers To Deter Scalpers In Japan

screenrant.com:

Sony is reportedly employing holographic stickers in Japan in its latest attempt to deter PS5 scalpers. Scalpers have been a major problem for both Sony and Microsoft since the launch of current-gen consoles, as shameless re-sellers mark up prices for those anxious to obtain a PS5 or Xbox Series X/S. Chip shortages and supply chain issues have made it notoriously difficult for many to purchase a current-gen console, and scalpers have taken advantage of the demand, buying up thousands of units before selling back to consumers at excessive markups. It was even reported that PS5 and Xbox Series X scalpers made almost $60 million within months of the consoles’ 2020 launch.

Most scalpers utilize bots to claim retail stock, purchasing thousands of units while consumers struggle to pick up one. Many retailers find it difficult to obtain enough stock to quell the demand, something scalpers abuse to resell the consoles. Despite current-gen consoles being available for over a year now, scalpers are still prevalent in the industry. Within just 24 hours of Microsoft opening pre-orders for its special Halo Infinite Xbox Series X console, scalpers resold them for over $1,000 each.

Related: PS5 Scalpers Can Now Sell Through Walmart's Website

According to a Yahoo! Japan story (via PlayStation LifeStyle), Sony is reportedly using stickers to deter PS5 scalpers in Japan. The report claimed that Sony is placing holographic seals on all brand-new PS5 consoles, which retailers are then asked to break in front of customers. The strategy is intended to prevent scalpers from being able to sell new items since potential buyers would notice the broken seal. The special holographic seal is being placed on all boxes before being shipped to