Although the PS5 does not come equipped with a GPS chip—there are ways you can follow to track and potentially recover it. Yes—it is somehow possible and we’ll guide you through each step of the way.
Rest assured—our insights are backed by reputable sources and detailed guidance from articles like “WhatIfGaming”,“JustAnswer”, and “NerdyBeaver” along with real-time audience discussions from “Quora” and “Reddit”. All these offer expert advice on how to track PS5 if stolen.
Do You Remember Your PS5 MAC Address or Serial Number?
You know what—every PS5 has a unique serial number that serves as an identifier for each console. This number is important both for warranty and identification purposes—particularly in case of theft.
Likewise—MAC address is another unique identifier that is assigned to the network hardware of your PS5.
If you know your PS5’s serial number, then Sony can potentially track or brick the console when it connects to the internet. In the same way—If you provide your serial number to Sony, they can locate your stolen PS5.
That’s why it is always suggested to remember or note down your device’s MAC address and serial number as soon as you buy it.
Hurry Up and Contact Sony Customer Support
It seems like a long shot—but Sony can actually help you track your PS5 if stolen. You must notify Sony that your console has been stolen. Write a detailed email to provide them with the serial number and MAC addresses along with other required details.
Rest assured that Sony has the capability to monitor when the console logs onto the PlayStation Network and can track the device’s location based on its IP address when coordinated with law enforcement.
Don’t Forget to File a Police Report
You must immediately contact your local law enforcement and provide them with the serial number and MAC address of your PS5. Do it even before you contact Sony customer support services. The police can also help track your PS5 if it connects to the internet.
Meanwhile, don’t merely roam around asking how to track PS5 if stolen. Instead, keep an eye on online marketplaces such as eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook. If your stolen PS5 appears for sale—you can notify the police who can use this information in their investigation.
Try Using Your Bluetooth Trackers
If your PS5 had a Bluetooth tracker like Apple AirTags—then be relaxed. You can use its corresponding app to locate the console—but only if it’s within Bluetooth range.
Don’t lose hope in case you didn’t attach the Bluetooth tracker to your console. Just make sure to advise your friends and fellows to leverage Bluetooth trackers if they don’t want to lose their PS5 forever.
What Security Measures Should I Take in Advance?
Now—there’s something every PS5 owner should do in order to be prepared for theft. Yes—it’s essential to implement several security measures in advance. Relax—we’ll also guide you about how to prevent your PS5 from getting stolen in the first place
Record Key Information
- First of all, find the serial number on the bottom of your PS5 console. It’s typically written near a QR code. Quick note it down and store it securely in multiple places. For instance, you can save it in a secured cloud storage like Google docs.
- Next, you need to record the MAC addresses for your network interfaces. Simply navigate through Settings > Network > View Connection Status on your PS5. Just like the serial number, keep your MAC address securely stored.
Use Device Tracking Options
It’s always advised to attach a powerful Bluetooth tracking device to your PS5. That’s because it can effectively help you locate your console within a short range—all via your smartphone.
You should place the tracker in a hidden yet secure part of the console—so that the theif can find and remove it.
Secure Your PlayStation Network (PSN) Account
- You need to ensure that your PSN account password is strong enough to be unhackable. Use a password that’s unique and not used elsewhere. If it seems suitable, you may use a password manager to generate and store your password.
- It’s also useful if you enable 2FA on your PSN account to add an extra layer of security. This means that even if your password is compromised, the attacker would need a second form of identification to access your account.
- Don’t forget to adjust your PSN account’s privacy settings to limit who can see your activities, friends list, and personal information.
Insurance and Documentation
- You should always take photos of your PS5 setup. It will be the best if you emphasize its serial number. This is highly useful for insurance claims and police reports.
- Connect with an insurance provider, as they can help ensure that your policy covers electronics theft. Make sure to grasp all details like coverage limits and deductibles.
Be Aware of Software and Network Security
- Keep your PS5’s software up to date. Software updates often include security patches that protect against various types of cyber threats.
- It’s also important to ensure your home network is secure. Use a strong, unique password for your Wi-Fi network. You may also consider using a VPN on your network to further secure your online activities.
Physical Security Measures
- Keep your PS5 in a secured, less visible area when not in use. Do it especially if you live in a place easily accessible by others, such as a ground-floor apartment or near a public area.
- You may also consider using a console security lock or a lockbox. It’s good that some locks attach directly to the console and tether it to a permanent fixture.
Summary
It’s important to know that if your PS5 ever gets stolen, all is not lost. You can indeed take steps to potentially recover your console, especially if you have prepared ahead of time.
For instance, worldwide PS5 users on forums like OzBargain and Reddit have shared some valuable experiences. One user mentioned that providing the serial number to the Sony can help track it. Some other users suggested that police can effectively help retrieve the console if it turns up in pawn shops or second-hand stores.
It’s always wise to be proactive about security measures, right? So—make sure to note down your PS5’s serial number and MAC address for times like this.
