Nintendo Switch 2 Bans Users Over MIG Switch Cartridge Firmware Update

Published on: June 17, 2025

Nintendo has continued its aggressive stance against piracy with the arrival of its next-generation console, the Nintendo Switch 2.

As documented by multiple sources, including notable industry publication Kotaku, the company is actively enforcing bans on users found to be utilizing the controversial MIG Switch cartridge, a device that was recently updated to allow loading of Nintendo Switch games onto the Switch 2 via the system's backwards compatibility feature. The MIG Switch cartridge, long a subject of heated debate within the gaming community, initially allowed users to play so-called "backed up" or pirated game files on their Nintendo Switch consoles.

However, a recent firmware update enabled these devices to function on the Switch 2, raising significant concerns for Nintendo regarding copyright infringement and digital rights management.

Notably, images circulating on platforms such as Reddit and other social media outlets show users encountering an error code—specifically Error Code: 2124-4508—after employing the device.

The error message cites restrictions by Nintendo regarding access to online services for those accounts. One affected user explained the consequences of using the MIG Switch cartridge with their legal game dumps: "After testing the card with my own legally acquired cartridges on the Switch 2, my system was banned from using online services.

This suggests Nintendo is capable of detecting unauthorized hardware regardless of the legitimacy of the game data," the user shared.

Additional reports on Reddit corroborate this experience, emphasizing the risks users face when connecting their modified consoles online. While these enforcement actions appear comprehensive, reports indicate that Nintendo is currently limiting the scope of bans to the affected consoles, rather than entire user accounts.

"My Switch 2 was banned but my main Nintendo account remains intact—for now," a user noted, cautioning others not to assume immunity from future account bans.

Community responses echo this sentiment, with many stating that bans are an expected outcome for those who attempt to go online with unauthorized hardware such as the MIG Switch cartridge. Nintendo's proactivity in safeguarding its intellectual property has been a hallmark of the company's approach throughout the Switch era.

The Japanese gaming giant has a well-documented history of deploying firmware updates, security checks, and system-level monitoring to curtail piracy on both its hardware and digital storefronts, including the eShop and Nintendo Switch Online services.

News surrounding the MIG Switch cartridge first emerged in January of the previous year, highlighting Nintendo's ongoing vigilance as it transitions to the Switch 2 platform. As the Nintendo Switch 2 continues to roll out to international markets, the company is reinforcing its commitment to protecting both developers' rights and the integrity of its growing ecosystem.

For users, the message is clear: unauthorized hardware and attempts to circumvent digital protections carry substantial risk, both for console functionality and continued access to online features.