Nintendo May Brick Secondhand Switch 2 Units

Gamers are warning prospective buyers to be cautious of Nintendo's updated anti-piracy measures when purchasing a pre-owned Switch 2—otherwise, they might end up with a console permanently banned from online services.

Earlier this month, Nintendo enthusiasts speculated the company has started permanently blocking all online features on Switch 2 consoles that have ever used a MIG Switch flashcard—a device used to play unauthorized game copies.

The ban appears to be irreversible, causing affected consoles to display error code 2124-4508 whenever they attempt to connect online. Blocked systems can no longer download or play digital games and Game-Key cartridges, receive system or game updates, participate in online multiplayer, use GameChat, or access any Nintendo Switch Online features, including the subscription’s classic game libraries.

If you're in the market for a Switch 2, you probably want access to those online features. Unfortunately, one customer has already reported buying a discounted pre-owned Switch 2, only to discover it had been permanently banned.

Reddit user Bimmytung explained they purchased a used Switch 2 from Walmart and inspected the box in-store to confirm everything appeared normal.

"Physically, it looked fine and seemed to have all the components," Bimmytung wrote. "I noticed the Mario Kart code had been scratched off, which made me wonder if the original owner had redeemed it and then returned the console. Since they discounted it by $50, I decided to take a chance, thinking at least I’d have the hardware. I also picked up a Pro Controller 2.

"Once I got home and tried to finish the setup, I immediately encountered Error Code 2124-4508. A quick online search confirmed my fears—I was out of luck. Thankfully, my local Walmart accepted the return without any issues. Still, I have nothing but harsh words for the person who pulled this stunt."

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

As awareness grows about the risks of using MIG Switch flashcards and Nintendo continues to ban more Switch 2 consoles, the chance increases that more affected systems will appear on platforms like eBay or in secondhand shops.

The community advises that anyone considering a used Switch 2 should request proof that the device can still go online, along with confirmation from the previous owner that a MIG Switch was never used. This can help avoid getting caught in a future ban wave.

Back in May, before the Switch 2 launch, Nintendo updated its Nintendo Account Agreement to state that using "hardware or software that causes the Nintendo Account Services to operate outside of their intended use" could result in "the Nintendo Account Services and/or the applicable Nintendo device becoming permanently unusable in whole or in part."

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

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Even so, reports that Nintendo was quickly banning consoles that had ever inserted a MIG Switch came as a surprise to many Switch 2 owners, who saw their new systems lose online access almost instantly.

IGN reached out to Nintendo previously for more information on these bans but did not get a reply. We have contacted them again today to ask what affected customers should do if they buy a banned secondhand Switch 2, whether Nintendo will acknowledge the situation and lift bans, and if the company plans to inform retailers that handle used consoles about this issue.