Switch 2 bans for secondhand games and MIG cartridges: what's going on

Last update: 11/07/2025

  • Switch 2 users are being banned for using second-hand games or MIG cartridges.
  • Many automatic locks are due to the detection of previous copies or unauthorized modifications.
  • Nintendo Support may be able to lift the ban after reviewing valid proof of purchase.
  • The anti-piracy policy even affects legitimate users of the used game market.
Switch 2 bans for second-hand games

The recent wave of Nintendo Switch 2 bans is generating a remarkable concern among the gaming communityThe main reason is not always obvious and, in many cases, it affects users who have apparently followed all the rules, especially those who purchase second-hand gamesThis situation is putting the security of the used game market itself and the experience of owners of Nintendo's new console into question.

Since the launch of the Switch 2, Nintendo has toughened its anti-piracy policy., implementing automatic systems capable of detecting any hardware modification, use of MIG cartridges or physical games that have previously gone through unauthorized copying methods. Although the measure seeks to protect the integrity of its platform, the System errors have led to user blockages who simply chose to save on the purchase of their games.

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The usual case: bans after using second-hand games

Switch 2 Bans

One of the most talked about examples is that of a user who inserted several second-hand physical games on your Switch 2 to update your library. Without warning, and after installing the corresponding updates, the console was blocked with the well-known error code 2124-4508This type of ban is especially restrictive: It affects the console and not the account.so that Changing users or using another account is of no use., leaving only the option of offline play.

Nintendo's automatic system, designed to identify suspicious activities, can activate the ban if it detects that the Same cartridge was previously copied through devices such as MIG Switch, or if the game is running on more than one console simultaneously. This puts those who purchase used titles without knowing their full history in a difficult position, as they may inherit problems from a previous owner.

How Nintendo has responded to affected users

Under these circumstances, the only way for those who are unfairly blocked is Contact Nintendo technical support. In several cases, users who have been able to demonstrate legitimate purchase of the games —providing photographs of the cartridges and information about sellers on platforms like Facebook Marketplace—have managed to get Nintendo to review the sanction and unlock the affected console. The attention received, according to some players, has generally been cooperative and decisive, allowing access to online services to be restored once the evidence has been verified.

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Other reasons for banning: unofficial cartridges and risks to the secondhand market

Second-hand game stores

Along with incidents involving used games, there have been documented Blockage cases due to the use of MIG cartridges, devices that allow you to store multiple games and that, although they have legitimate uses for backups, are usually related to the unofficial distribution of titles. anti-piracy system Nintendo does not distinguish between the end-user's motives and directly applies the ban to any hardware detected under these circumstances.

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This zero tolerance policy puts the traditional market in check second-hand games, a widespread practice among console owners. Buying a second-hand physical title—even if it was legally acquired— may carry the risk of receiving a bricked console whether that game has been previously cloned or modified, something that consumers can hardly verify before purchase.

The community, on alert: recommendations and current situation

Pass games Switch 2

The increase in bans is generating concern and debate on forums and social media. For those affected, The first step is always to contact Nintendo support and provide proof of the transaction. Although many affected individuals have been able to regain access to services after going through this process, uncertainty persists. Currently, Users should be especially cautious when purchasing games on the second-hand market. or by using hardware that is not officially authorized by Nintendo.

Nintendo's tightening of anti-piracy measures is having unforeseen repercussions for legitimate gamers, making the purchase of used games a riskier decision than it once was. Although technical support responds effectively in many cases, the situation has brought to the forefront the complex relationship between intellectual property protection and consumer rights.

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