Sony PS5 Update Patches Relapse Jailbreak Vulnerabilities

Key Takeaways

• Sony has released a system software update for the PlayStation 5, effectively patching vulnerabilities exploited by the recently publicized Relapse jailbreak.
• The Relapse exploit targets PS5 and PS5 Pro consoles running firmware versions 7.00 through 13.60, enabling the execution of unsigned code.
• Consoles updated to firmware version 14.00 or later are not susceptible to the Relapse exploit, which leverages a WebKit browser flaw and a kernel vulnerability.
• The jailbreak is tethered, non-permanent, and carries risks including system instability, data loss, and potential PlayStation Network account bans.

Sony has moved to bolster the security of its PlayStation 5 consoles with a recent system software update, effectively closing avenues exploited by the newly released Relapse jailbreak. This development addresses a significant security concern for a wide range of older PS5 firmware versions.

The update is critical for console owners because the publicly available Relapse exploit provides a mechanism to execute unsigned code on PS5 and PS5 Pro systems operating with firmware versions from 7.00 up to 13.60.

Although Sony deployed its firmware 14.00 update prior to the public release of Relapse, the timing has clarified a crucial distinction: PS5 consoles that have already installed firmware 14.00 are outside the exploit’s specified compatibility range, thus mitigating the threat.

PS5 Security Update Details

While Sony’s public consumer update pages do not explicitly detail specific fixes related to Relapse, the company consistently advises that all PS5 system software updates incorporate essential security enhancements for proper console functionality. Users are strongly urged to install these updates promptly.

The Relapse exploit was released as a multi-stage attack chain targeting PS5 firmware spanning versions 7.00 to 13.60, affecting both the original PS5 and the PS5 Pro models within this range.

According to the project’s GitHub documentation, the jailbreak initiates by exploiting a WebKit weakness within the console’s browser. Subsequently, it leverages a kernel-level flaw to achieve read and write access to the system. This elevated access level allows for the execution of compatible homebrew applications and other unauthorized payloads on the console.

It is important to note that Relapse is not a permanent jailbreak. It is a tethered exploit, meaning users must re-execute the exploit chain after every PS5 restart. The developers also caution that the browser stage may require multiple attempts to succeed and that the kernel stage could potentially lead to console freezes or crashes.

Risks and Recommendations

The Relapse project itself enumerates several risks associated with its use, including system instability, potential data loss, and the possibility of PlayStation Network account bans. The developers explicitly state that the software is intended solely for educational and security research purposes and does not endorse piracy or any unauthorized use.

For the average PS5 owner, maintaining an updated console remains the most secure course of action. A console running the latest system software benefits from Sony’s current security protections, receives new features, and ensures better compatibility with games and PlayStation services.

Sony warns that users may be unable to access certain applications or content without updating their system software. Furthermore, the company advises against installing update files from unofficial sources or on modified consoles, as such actions can lead to system malfunction and may void warranty or repair support.

PS5 users can easily check for available updates by navigating to Settings, then selecting System, followed by System Software, and finally System Software Update and Settings. If an update is detected, users can select “Update System Software” to initiate the installation process.

Sony also facilitates automatic downloads and offers USB-based update options for consoles unable to complete a standard download. For USB updates, a FAT32 or exFAT formatted drive is required, containing a PS5/UPDATE folder structure with the official update file saved as PS5UPDATE.PUP.

The emergence of the Relapse exploit underscores the critical role of console firmware as a primary security boundary. While a browser vulnerability alone is serious, its combination with kernel access significantly weakens the controls designed to prevent the execution of unapproved code.

Firmware 14.00 currently serves as a practical demarcation: systems on versions 7.00 through 13.60 may be vulnerable to the Relapse exploit chain, whereas consoles already updated to 14.00 fall outside the jailbreak’s published compatibility. Since Sony does not provide an official method to downgrade PS5 system software, users who update cannot revert to an earlier, vulnerable release.

What You Should Do

• Update Your PS5 Immediately: Ensure your PlayStation 5 console is running the latest system software (version 14.00 or higher) to patch known vulnerabilities.
• Enable Automatic Updates: Configure your PS5 to download and install updates automatically to ensure continuous protection.
• Avoid Unofficial Sources: Never install system software updates from unofficial websites or third-party sources.
• Do Not Jailbreak Your Console: Refrain from attempting to jailbreak your console, as it carries risks of system instability, data loss, and potential PlayStation Network account bans.
• Back Up Important Data: Regularly back up your game saves and other important data to cloud storage or an external drive.

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