How to Fix PlayStation Error WC-40378-2 "You Have Attempted This Action Too Many Times"

You try to redeem a PSN code or add a payment method and get error WC-40378-2: "You have attempted this action too many times in a short period." This is a rate limit error — PlayStation has temporarily locked your account from making further attempts. Here's exactly why it happens and what to do.

Why This Happens

PlayStation enforces rate limits on how many times you can attempt certain actions — like redeeming voucher codes or entering payment information — in a short period. This is a security measure to protect accounts from brute force attacks and fraudulent activity. The lockout is triggered when you:

• Enter too many incorrect voucher codes in a short time
• Attempt to redeem multiple codes rapidly in succession
• Make too many failed payment attempts
• Try to redeem a code repeatedly after it keeps failing for another reason

The more failed attempts you make, the longer the lockout tends to last.

How Long Do You Have to Wait?

PlayStation's official guidance says to wait and try again later — but doesn't specify an exact time. Based on community reports, the lockout typically lasts between 1 hour and 24 hours depending on how many attempts triggered it. The most important rule: do not keep trying. Every additional attempt during the lockout can extend it further. Stop completely, wait at least an hour, and ideally wait the full 24 hours before trying again.

What to Do Right Now

If You're Still Locked Out After 24 Hours

If you've waited the full 24 hours without making any further attempts and still get WC-40378-2, contact PlayStation Support directly. Explain that you've waited 24 hours and are still seeing the rate limit error. They can investigate whether there's an account-level restriction and help lift it.

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