Do I Need a Phone Number for Battle.net Authenticator?

The short answer is: Yes, a phone number is required to use the Battle.net Authenticator. While the authenticator itself is a security measure, it’s intrinsically linked to your phone number on the Battle.net platform. This is a crucial point to understand, and we’ll delve into the reasons why and the implications this has for your account security and game access.

Understanding the Link Between Phone Numbers and Battle.net Security

The Battle.net Authenticator is a two-factor authentication (2FA) method designed to significantly enhance the security of your Blizzard account. It works by generating a unique, time-sensitive code that you must enter in addition to your password when logging in. This prevents unauthorized access even if someone has obtained your password. To ensure this enhanced security, Blizzard requires a linked phone number. This number acts as an additional layer of verification and a recovery method should you lose access to your authenticator.

This security approach is not just a feature, it’s a policy. A phone number is attached to your Battle.net account and it can only be associated with one account at any given time. This limitation is in place to prevent misuse and to tie each account to a unique individual. The system ensures that if any critical changes or security alerts arise concerning your account, Blizzard has a reliable way of contacting you immediately via SMS.

Why the Phone Number Requirement?

There are several reasons why Blizzard enforces this phone number requirement:

• Enhanced Account Security: Linking a phone number provides an additional layer of protection. It makes it significantly harder for unauthorized individuals to access your account, even if they manage to get hold of your password.
• Recovery Options: In case you lose access to your authenticator or forget your password, your phone number is a key method for account recovery. You can receive a verification code via SMS to regain access.
• Account Verification: The phone number acts as a verification method. It confirms that you are a real person and reduces the likelihood of bots or malicious actors creating numerous fake accounts.
• Important Notifications: Blizzard utilizes the phone number to send you important account notifications, such as login attempts from new devices or any account changes.

Managing Your Phone Number on Battle.net

Despite the requirement, Blizzard also offers avenues to manage your linked phone number. If your number changes, you can easily update it via your Account Management page.

Updating Your Phone Number

1. Log into your Battle.net account on the official website.
2. Navigate to the Password & Security section of your account management page.
3. Turn off SMS Authentication and click “Proceed”.
4. Turn SMS Authentication back on and enter your new phone number.
5. Click Send Code to receive a verification SMS.
6. Enter the code you received to complete the change.

Removing Your Phone Number

You can remove your phone number from your Battle.net account via the Account Details page. However, be aware that some games require an SMS number to be played, and removing the phone number may prevent you from accessing those titles.

What If Your Phone Number Is Not Accepted?

Sometimes, you might face issues trying to register your phone number. Here are some things to check:

• Accuracy: Make sure you’ve entered the correct phone number.
• Country: Confirm that the country registered on your Battle.net account matches your phone number’s country code.
• VOIP: Phone numbers associated with Voice over IP (VOIP) plans are often not accepted.
• Previously Used: Ensure the phone number isn’t already linked to another Battle.net account. Remember, a phone number can only be used on one Battle.net account at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use Google Authenticator instead of the Battle.net Authenticator?

While Google Authenticator can be used for many services, Blizzard accounts specifically require the Battle.net Authenticator for their 2FA process. Google Authenticator cannot be used directly. However, you can transfer your authenticator keys if you are switching to a new device and using Google Authenticator on that new device.

2. How do I activate the Battle.net Authenticator?

Download the Battle.net app on your phone, launch it, follow the prompts, log in to your Battle.net account, enter your phone number, wait for setup completion, and note the provided Authenticator Serial Number and Restore Code.

3. What if I lose my phone with the Authenticator?

You will need to submit a support request to Blizzard’s Support Team to have your Authenticator removed. Once this has been completed you can setup the authenticator again. You can also use Blizzard Phone Notifications to login to your account if you are having issues with your authenticator.

4. Can I transfer my Battle.net Authenticator to a new phone?

Yes, you can, but this process may vary slightly depending on which application you are using. If you are using the google authenticator app, then you can transfer your keys via QR code or entering the secret key manually to the new phone, in the app.

5. Why is Battle.net asking for a verification code repeatedly?

If you are getting many verification emails, your email address may be compromised. Change your email address, reset your password, add phone notifications or an Authenticator, to secure your account.

6. Why won’t Battle.net accept my phone number?

Make sure the number is correctly entered, the country registered on your Battle.net account is correct and matches the number’s country code, and that the number wasn’t previously used on a VOIP plan. Also, confirm the number isn’t already attached to a different Battle.net account.

7. Where is the serial number on the Battle.net Authenticator?

For physical authenticator tokens, the serial number is printed on a sticker on the back of the device.

8. How long does it take Blizzard support to remove an authenticator?

Currently, average ticket times are around 7 days. Under normal circumstances, it would have been 24-48 hours.

9. What is the authentication code in the Blizzard Authenticator?

The authentication code is an eight-digit code generated by the app that changes every 30 seconds. It’s this unique code that adds the extra security layer.

10. Why does Battle.net need my phone number?

Blizzard uses your phone number to send you important notifications about your account and to provide an extra layer of security. It also allows account recovery in case of lost passwords or authenticator access.

11. Why does Battle.net say my phone number is already in use?

A phone number can only be attached to a single Battle.net account. You need to log into the other account it’s registered to and remove it from there.

12. Can I play Overwatch 2 without a phone number?

New players are required to enter a phone number when setting up a Battle.net account for Overwatch 2. However, if you played the first Overwatch any time after June 9, 2021, you can bypass this requirement using your current Battle.net credentials.

13. Does Battle.net sell your phone number?

No, Blizzard does not sell your personal information.

14. Is the Battle.net Authenticator free?

Yes, the Battle.net mobile app is free for both iOS and Android.

15. What games require a phone number on Battle.net?

Currently, Overwatch 2, 2019’s Modern Warfare and the upcoming CoD shooter require a phone number to be added to your Battle.net account.

Final Thoughts

While the phone number requirement might seem like an inconvenience for some, it is a necessary measure to protect your Blizzard account and enhance overall security. By understanding how this system works, and the options you have to manage your phone number, you can enjoy your gaming experience with greater peace of mind. Always keep your account details, including your registered phone number, up-to-date and be mindful of potential phishing attempts that aim to compromise your security.