eSAFETY GUIDE
Playstation Network logo

Playstation Network

18+
to register an account without parental permission
18+ to register an account without parental permission

What is PlayStation Network?

PlayStation Network (PSN) is an online service that lets you connect with other online gamers, and purchase games and media via the PlayStation Store. The service provides chat, voice and video functionality as well as connected virtual reality (VR) spaces. Users are identified via online IDs and once a profile is established it can be accessed from any other PlayStation. If you are under 18 years, your access will need to be approved through a family account on PSN If you want access to multiplayer gaming — where you can play with other gamers over the internet — you need to subscribe to PlayStation Plus for a monthly or annual fee. This will also give you access to premium content including free games, additional game levels and exclusive previews of new release games.

Website: playstation.com

Apps: Android app, Apple iOS

How do people use the PlayStation Network?

Learn more about the benefits and risks associated with how people use gaming services like PlayStation Network.

PlayStation Network is used for: content sharing, gaming, immersive technologies, in-app purchasing, live streaming, location sharing, messaging/online chat, online relationships, screen capture, video calling and voice chat.

How can you report online abuse or block someone?

These links are provided by PlayStation Network:

How can you protect your personal information?

These links are provided by PlayStation Network:

  • Privacy settings
    Learn how to control who can see and communicate with you on PlayStation Network.
  • Account security
    Learn about account security and privacy on PlayStation network.
  • Privacy Policy
    Outlines how your information is collected, stored and used on PlayStation Network.

Key safety links

These links are provided by PlayStation Network:

  • Online safety
    Safety tools and tips for players of all ages.
  • Parental controls
    How to use parental controls to make PlaySation a safer place for your family.
  • Family accounts
    How to set up family accounts on PlayStation Network.
  • Safety for parents and carers
    A guide for parents and carers on how to help your children keep themselves safer online.
  • Code of conduct
    Outlines the behaviours expected when interacting with other members on PlayStation Network.
  • Terms of service
    The terms you agree to when you use PlayStation Network.

Last updated: 04/06/2024

The eSafety Guide helps you find out how to protect your personal information and report harmful content on common social media, games, apps and sites. Entries are for information only and are not reviews or endorsements by eSafety. Before choosing to use any online service or platform it’s best to:

  • do your own research to understand the risks and benefits
  • check the age rating and requirements
  • consider privacy
  • check the permissions and other settings
  • check the in-app reporting options.

If you are a parent or carer who is deciding whether a child should be allowed to use an online service or platform, you can also:

  • consider your child's readiness for the types of content and experiences they might encounter
  • help them understand what to do if they need help
  • provide ongoing support and monitoring, for example through regular check-ins with your child
  • agree to some rules about use of each service or platform.

To find out more, you can read the App checklist for parents, as well as information about parental controls in social media, games and apps and mental wellbeing resources for families.