How to Set Up a Second Phone Number in Overwatch: A Comprehensive Guide

Unfortunately, setting up a second phone number specifically within Overwatch itself isn’t possible. Overwatch 2’s system, designed to combat toxicity and cheating, only allows one unique phone number per Battle.net account. The system, known as SMS Protect, verifies your identity and helps keep the game fair and secure. Adding a second phone number directly to your existing Overwatch 2 account isn’t an option. However, there are other considerations and ways to manage multiple accounts, which we’ll explore in detail.

Understanding Overwatch 2’s Phone Number Requirement

Overwatch 2 utilizes a system called SMS Protect. This system requires players to link a valid phone number to their Battle.net account. This phone number is used for account recovery, verification purposes, and helps prevent fraudulent activities within the game. The initial intent was to reduce smurfing, cheating, and disruptive behavior. While the initial rollout had issues, impacting players with prepaid phone plans, Blizzard has since adjusted the policy for certain players.

Original SMS Protect Policy

Originally, all Overwatch 2 players were required to register a phone number to their Battle.net account to play. This led to significant controversy, as it excluded players who used prepaid phone plans or certain VOIP numbers. This policy was designed to deter malicious actors from creating numerous accounts.

Current Phone Number Requirements

Blizzard later walked back the blanket requirement. Now, if you started playing Overwatch before the release of Overwatch 2 (specifically, if you played Overwatch anytime since June 9, 2021, on a linked Battle.net account), you might not be required to add a phone number to play Overwatch 2. However, new accounts and accounts with suspicious activity may still be required to register a phone number.

Can You Have Multiple Overwatch Accounts on One Phone Number?

The short answer is no. A phone number can only be used once when creating a new Battle.net account for Overwatch 2. If you’re trying to create a second Overwatch account, you’ll need a different, eligible phone number. This limitation is a core part of SMS Protect’s security measures. Certain types of numbers, including prepaid and VOIP numbers, are often ineligible for use with SMS Protect.

Alternatives and Workarounds (With Caveats)

Since you cannot directly add a second phone number to a single Overwatch account, here are some alternative options and what to be aware of:

1. Family Member or Friend (With Permission): If you want to create a second account for a legitimate reason (e.g., practicing different roles), you could potentially use a phone number belonging to a family member or close friend, with their explicit permission. However, this option carries significant risks. The phone number becomes tied to your account, and they would need to be available to provide verification codes for account recovery or other security checks. This is not recommended due to privacy and security concerns.

2. Second Phone Line (Not Always Practical): Obtaining a second phone line through your mobile carrier or a virtual number service might seem like a solution. However, many VOIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) numbers are ineligible for SMS Protect. Blizzard actively blocks many of these services to prevent abuse. Before considering this, confirm that the virtual number service provides numbers that are not classified as VOIP and meet Overwatch 2’s requirements. There are very few providers that meet these requirements, and they often come with restrictions.

3. Prepaid Phone Number (Now Possibly Eligible for Some): While prepaid numbers were originally excluded, Blizzard adjusted its policy. Now, it is possible in some regions to link a prepaid phone number to your Overwatch 2 account. This is a good thing for legitimate players with prepaid phones, that would have been previously excluded.

4. Managing Multiple Battle.net Accounts: Remember that each Overwatch 2 account requires a separate Battle.net account. You can manage multiple Battle.net accounts through the Battle.net launcher. To switch accounts, use the drop-down menu above the PLAY button.

Important Considerations Before Creating a Second Account

• Terms of Service: Review Blizzard’s Terms of Service. Creating multiple accounts to gain an unfair advantage (smurfing) can result in penalties, including account suspension or permanent bans.
• Fair Play: Play fairly and ethically. Don’t use secondary accounts to harass other players, manipulate matchmaking, or otherwise disrupt the game experience.
• Security Risks: Using someone else’s phone number significantly increases the risk of account compromise. If they lose access to their phone number, you could lose access to your Overwatch 2 account.
• Account Recovery: If you lose access to your account, you’ll need access to the linked phone number to recover it. Make sure the person whose number you’re using is aware of this and is willing to assist you.

How to Add a Phone Number to Your Battle.net Account

If you need to add a phone number (or change your existing one), here are the steps:

1. Log in to your Battle.net account on the Battle.net website.
2. Navigate to the Account Details tab.
3. Scroll down to the Phone Number section.
4. Click Add Phone Number or Update.
5. Enter your phone number, including the area code.
6. Wait to receive a text message containing a security code.
7. Enter the security code to verify your phone number.

Troubleshooting Phone Number Issues

• Invalid Phone Number: Ensure you’ve entered the number correctly, including the country code.
• VOIP Number: Blizzard doesn’t accept VOIP numbers for SMS Protect.
• Already in Use: If the number is already associated with another Battle.net account, you’ll need to remove it from the other account first.
• Country Mismatch: Make sure the country registered on your Battle.net account matches the country of your phone number.

The Purpose of SMS Protect

The primary purpose of SMS Protect is to enhance account security and reduce disruptive behavior within Overwatch 2. By requiring a unique phone number, Blizzard aims to make it more difficult for malicious actors to create multiple accounts for cheating, smurfing, or other harmful activities.

Overwatch 2 and Community

The use of SMS Protect and other measure reflects the commitment of Blizzard to create a healthy and supportive community in Overwatch 2. You may also visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more about the link between video games and community.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a Google Voice number for Overwatch 2?

No, generally Google Voice numbers and other similar VOIP services are not accepted for Overwatch 2’s SMS Protect system. Blizzard requires a traditional mobile phone number.

2. Why is Overwatch 2 asking for my phone number again?

If you played Overwatch before the change in policy, you might be asked for a phone number if your account is flagged for suspicious activity or if you haven’t previously added one.

3. What if I don’t have a mobile phone? Can I still play Overwatch 2?

If you are a new player, or have an account that has been flagged, not having a mobile phone that is eligible for SMS Protect will likely prevent you from playing Overwatch 2.

4. Does Blizzard sell my phone number?

No, according to Blizzard’s privacy policy, they do not sell your personal information, including your phone number.

5. Can I change my phone number on my Battle.net account?

Yes, you can change your phone number. Go to the Account Details page on the Battle.net website and update the Phone Number section.

6. What happens if I lose access to the phone number linked to my account?

You’ll need to contact Blizzard Support immediately to recover your account. They will likely require additional verification to confirm your identity.

7. Is SMS Protect mandatory for all Blizzard games?

No, SMS Protect is primarily used for Overwatch 2 and certain other Blizzard games. It’s not a universal requirement for all their titles.

8. Can I merge two Overwatch accounts into one?

No, you cannot merge two Overwatch accounts into a single account. This includes merging accounts from different platforms (e.g., PC and console).

9. Can I use the same phone number for multiple Battle.net accounts if they are for different Blizzard games?

No, a phone number can only be associated with one Battle.net account, regardless of the games played on those accounts.

10. What if my phone number is incorrectly flagged as VOIP?

Contact Blizzard Support. They may be able to manually verify your number.

11. Does Blizzard plan to remove SMS Protect entirely?

While Blizzard has adjusted the policy, there are no indications they plan to completely remove SMS Protect. It remains a key security feature for Overwatch 2.

12. Can I use a temporary or disposable phone number?

No, these numbers are almost always flagged and blocked by Blizzard’s system.

13. What if I move to a different country? Do I need to update my phone number?

Yes, you should update your phone number to reflect your new country of residence. Ensure the country registered on your Battle.net account matches the country of your phone number.

14. What are the risks of using someone else’s phone number for my Overwatch 2 account?

Significant risks include potential loss of account access, privacy concerns, and difficulties with account recovery.

15. If I played Overwatch 1, do I automatically get Overwatch 2?

Overwatch 1 has been replaced by Overwatch 2. If you owned Overwatch 1, you received Overwatch 2 as an update.