Millions of Sony PlayStation customers in the UK could seek damages of up to £5 billion if new legal claims brought against the gaming giant are successful.
A class action lawsuit filed against the company before the Competition Appeals Tribunal accuses the company of “defrauding” customers with overpriced digital games and in-game purchases.
Led by consumer rights advocate Alex Neal, the case accuses Sony of abusing its market-dominant position to impose unfair terms on game developers and publishers. His PlayStation Store online – claims this drives up consumer prices.
This has resulted in customers being overcharged by up to £5 billion for their digital game purchases over the past six years, the legal claims allege.
Approximately 9 million customers in the UK may be eligible for damages, which applies to anyone who purchases digital games or add-on content through the console or PlayStation Store after August 19, 2016.
Estimated damages per person in the claim are said to be between £67 and £562.
“The game is geared towards the Sony PlayStation,” said Neil.
“With this lawsuit, we defend millions of Britons who have been unknowingly overbilled. We believe Sony has abused its position and defrauded its customers.
“Gaming is now the UK’s largest entertainment industry, surpassing TV, video and music, and many vulnerable people rely on it for community and connection.
“Sony’s actions hurt millions of people who can’t afford it, especially at a time when we are in the middle of a cost of living crisis and consumers’ wallets are being squeezed like never before. I am giving.”
I reached out to Sony PlayStation for comment.
