# Why your PS5 games have padlocks on them

> A padlock icon means you've lost access to a game. Here's what causes it and how to fix it.
- Title: Why your PS5 games have padlocks on them · Engadget | Shortify
- Summary: A padlock icon means you've lost access to a game. Here's what causes it and how to fix it. PS5 games show padlock icons when licensing issues block access…
- Keywords: playstation 5, ps5, digital games, licensing, game access, sony, technology, games, padlocks, them, Engadget
- Source: Engadget — https://engadget.com/2281153/playstation-5-game-library-padlock-symbol-meaning-explained
- Author: Roger Fingas
- Published: 2026-10-11T18:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: playstation 5, ps5, digital games, licensing, game access, sony, technology
## Sony's shift to digital only
Sony plans to stop making disc-based games beginning in January two thousand twenty-eight, making digital games critical to the platform's future.
## What the padlock means
A padlock icon over a game thumbnail on your PS5 means you cannot access that title. This happens when Sony withdraws a license or authentication fails.
## You don't own your games
When you buy a game from an online store, you get a license to download and play it, not permanent ownership. Sony has final control over your access.
## Check your account and network
First, verify you are signed into the correct PlayStation account. Then confirm PlayStation Network is online using the PlayStation Status page.
## Verify your subscriptions
Check your PlayStation Plus subscription status and whether the game is currently in the library. Titles are added and removed regularly, causing padlocks on previously downloaded games.
## Restore your licenses
Go to the game in your library, press Options, then select Restore License. You can also restore multiple games at once through Settings.
## Try Safe Mode as last resort
If padlocks persist, restart your PS5 and install system updates. In extreme cases, boot into Safe Mode and select Clear Cache and Rebuild Database.
## Contact PlayStation Support
If none of these steps work, contact PlayStation Support for help resolving the licensing issue with your games.
## Key takeaway

PS5 games show padlock icons when licensing issues block access. You don't own digital games, only a license to play them, and Sony can revoke access if the license is withdrawn or authentication fails.