Knowing that thousands of PS5 systems were set to drop on the Big W website, scalpers got in early by finding a way into the store’s backend.
Another day, another retailer caught up in a PS5 scandal. This time it’s Big W trapped in the limelight. However unlike JB Hi-Fi, this was thankfully not an inside job. Instead, as reported by Press Start, it seems as though a really shitty scalper group managed to somehow access the Big W website’s backend and then proceed to put in a huge order of consoles before members of the general public even had a chance to tussle for it.
A mere 24 hours before the madness, word spread on Twitter that the major retailer had a huge stock of PS5 systems ready to offload. And by huge, we’re talking over 2000 units. That’s much more than we believe most other shipments have been allocated, but it appears as though the heads-up gave the scalping community time to prepare.
As a result, those cocky with their efforts started posting images of their antics on an Aussie scalper Instagram group.
The good news is that you can extinguish any fire of rage that’s surging within. It seems as though despite the successful orders, Big W is aware of the issue and will not be honouring them. In a statement to Kotaku, a spokesperson stated the following:
“We can confirm an issue occurred on our website today caused by some unsuccessful attempts at placing fraudulent orders. The issue has now been fixed and we can ensure our loyal customers waiting to order PS5 consoles will not be impacted. Stay tuned on our website for future releases.”
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“We know that PS5 consoles are hugely popular with our customers and drive a lot of excitement about when they might be released,” the company later stated. “We remind customers to keep an eye on the BIG W website for details for when they will become available, as stock is limited.”
While all PS5 stock was pulled from the Big W site, there’s no word when the second attempt will occur. We’re guessing there will be no warning this time, and don’t be surprised if it happens as early as tomorrow morning.
Stay frosty, PlayStation fans.
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