Nintendo Switch 2 Secondhand Buyers Warned of Anti-Piracy Console Bans

Caution urged for secondhand Nintendo Switch 2 buyers due to new anti-piracy measures that could render consoles permanently offline.

Recent reports indicate Nintendo is restricting online access for Switch 2 consoles linked to the MIG Switch flash card, a device used for unauthorized game copies.

This restriction, which appears permanent, triggers error code 2124-4508 when attempting online features. Affected consoles cannot download or play digital games or Game-Key cartridges, access system or game updates, engage in online multiplayer, use GameChat, or utilize Nintendo Switch Online services, including retro game libraries.

Purchasing a Switch 2 likely involves wanting these features. Unfortunately, one buyer reported purchasing a discounted pre-owned Switch 2, only to discover it was banned from online access.

On Reddit, user Bimmytung shared their experience of buying a pre-owned Switch 2 from Walmart, inspecting the box in-store to confirm its condition.

"It looked fine physically, everything was intact," Bimmytung wrote. "Noticed the Mario Kart code was scratched off. Suspected the original buyer redeemed it and returned the console. They reduced the price by $50, so I took a chance, thinking I’d at least get the hardware. Also bought a Pro Controller 2.

"Got home, started setup, and immediately hit Error Code 2124-4508. A quick search confirmed the worst. Thankfully, Walmart accepted the return without hassle, but I’m furious at whoever did this."

Found one. Didn't end well.
byu/Bimmytung inswitch2

As awareness of the MIG Switch card’s risks grows and more Switch 2 consoles face bans, the chances increase that affected units will appear on eBay or in secondhand stores.

Community advice includes requesting proof of online functionality when buying a used Switch 2 and confirming the previous owner did not use a MIG Switch to avoid future bans.

In May, before the Switch 2 launch, Nintendo revised its Nintendo Account Agreement, stating that using hardware or software to bypass intended operations could render Nintendo Account Services or devices “permanently unusable in whole or in part.”

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

Reports of Nintendo swiftly banning consoles using MIG Switch cards surprised many Switch 2 owners, who found their new devices blocked from online features almost instantly.

IGN reached out to Nintendo for clarification on the bans but received no response. Today, IGN again contacted the company, seeking guidance for buyers of blocked secondhand Switch 2 consoles, whether Nintendo would address or lift bans, and if retailers handling used stock would receive warnings about the issue.