How to avoid PS5 scams as the console continues to drop in shops

PS5 scammers are causing hundreds to lose out on the new console, as they resell the systems for over 10x their original price or con consumers out of money.

Here are some tips and tricks on how you can avoid falling foul of them.

Unfortunately it’s nothing new, as customers become desperate to get their hands on the latest gaming device.

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Some scammers are using ‘bots’, software designed to run automated tasks repetitively in order to put themselves at the front of the queue.

Sony have tried to stagger the drops of the PS5 but over the last month, retailers such as GAME and Argos have been releasing their stock, causing massive online queues as websites crash due to sheer demand.

But the sharp rise in ‘bots’ , purchasing multiple devices to then sell on at inflated prices, hasn’t been the only obstacle for gamers to try and beat.

More scammers are trying to dupe prospective buyers into purchasing just the box or even just a photo.

Carefully placing their item on sites such as Ebay, using the listing of photo, they’ve been able to trick consumers into spending over £500 for the sought-after console.

Fraudsters have been able to sell just the photo under ambiguous listings – whilst gamers thought they were bidding for the full device.

For bots, frustratingly, there’s not much that can be done.

Companies are looking at how they can reduce the use of them on their websites, but for customers looking at sales on sites like Ebay, there are steps that can be taken.

Just a photo?

Check the full description of the product.

If it’s ambiguous, or the listing only shows the box, tread carefully.

Double check where the item is listed.

If it’s tagged as a photo or box, it’s likely not going to be the full device.

The right price

You may be willing to pay a little more to get the console, but make sure you know the retail price.

The PS5 sells for £449.

February saw listings with prices at 24k for a disc version.

More opportunities to buy are on the way, for a fairer price.

New scams

Today (Tuesday 9) saw another restock.

Fraudsters are now looking for new ways to con, as those unsuccessful today are eagerly awaiting the next drop.

PS5 UK Stock Alerts released a warning on Twitter, after those who had ordered one received texts claiming to be from Royal Mail, and asking for money.

To avoid the scam, do not click on the link or pay anything.

Instead check directly with Royal Mail or the retailer you bought from.