Can I Use the Same Phone Number for Two Blizzard Accounts? The Definitive Answer
The short answer is a resounding no. A phone number can only be associated with one Battle.net account at any given time. This is a security measure implemented by Blizzard Entertainment to help protect user accounts and prevent abuse. Customer Support cannot bypass this limitation, so attempting to circumvent this system will be futile. If your phone number is already tied to another Battle.net account, you’ll need to log into that account and remove it before you can use it for a different one. This restriction applies across all Blizzard games, including Overwatch 2, World of Warcraft, Diablo, and more. Think of it like a digital key – one key, one lock.
Why the Phone Number Requirement? Understanding Blizzard’s Perspective
Blizzard’s decision to require a phone number for account security stemmed from a need to combat disruptive behavior and protect legitimate players. Here’s why they implemented this system:
- Account Security: Phone numbers add an extra layer of security through SMS Protect, which is a form of two-factor authentication. This makes it significantly harder for hackers to gain unauthorized access to your account, even if they have your password.
- Preventing Smurfing and Cheating: Requiring a unique phone number makes it more difficult for players to create multiple accounts for the purpose of “smurfing” (playing against less skilled players) or cheating.
- Account Recovery: If you forget your password or lose access to your email address, your phone number can be used to verify your identity and recover your account.
- Combating Toxic Behavior: By tying accounts to phone numbers, Blizzard aims to deter toxic behavior and harassment in their games. Players are theoretically more accountable for their actions when their accounts are linked to their real-world identity.
While the phone number requirement has been controversial among some players, Blizzard maintains that it is a necessary step to improve the overall gaming experience and protect its user base. However, Blizzard has made exceptions. For instance, after the tumultuous launch of Overwatch 2, the requirement was relaxed for “a majority of existing Overwatch players.”
Workarounds and Alternative Solutions
While you can’t use the same phone number for multiple Battle.net accounts, there are a few potential workarounds:
- Use a Different Phone Number: The most straightforward solution is to use a different phone number for each Battle.net account. If you don’t have a spare personal phone number, consider using a family member’s or purchasing a prepaid phone.
- Google Voice (Use With Caution): Some users have reported success using Google Voice numbers. However, it’s important to note that Blizzard’s terms of service may not explicitly allow the use of VOIP numbers. It’s advisable to check their current policy and understand the potential risks before using a Google Voice number for your Battle.net account. Blizzard has been known to restrict the use of VoIP numbers due to their susceptibility to abuse.
- Temporary Phone Numbers (Avoid): Using temporary or disposable phone numbers is generally not recommended. These numbers are often associated with fraudulent activities and may result in your account being flagged or even banned. Furthermore, you may lose access to account recovery if you rely on a temporary number.
- Removing a Number from a Previous Account: If you no longer use a Battle.net account associated with your phone number, log in to that account and remove the number. After removing the number from the old account, you will then be free to use it on a new one.
Always prioritize legitimate and secure methods when managing your Battle.net accounts. Avoid any practices that could violate Blizzard’s terms of service or compromise your account security.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about using phone numbers with Battle.net accounts:
1. Can I use the same email address for multiple Battle.net accounts?
No, each Battle.net account requires a unique email address. You’ll need to create a separate email address (or use an existing one that’s not already associated with a Battle.net account) for each account.
2. Can I unlink a phone number from my Battle.net account?
Yes, you can update or remove the phone number on your Battle.net account through your Account Details page. Be aware that removing the phone number may limit your access to certain games that require SMS Protect.
3. What happens if I lose access to the phone number associated with my Battle.net account?
Contact Blizzard Support immediately. They will guide you through the process of verifying your identity and updating your phone number.
4. Is it safe to give Blizzard my phone number?
Blizzard has security measures to protect your personal information. However, providing any personal information online carries some inherent risk. Weigh the benefits of SMS Protect against your personal privacy concerns.
5. Can someone else use my phone number for their Battle.net account without my permission?
No, they cannot. When someone attempts to add a phone number to a Battle.net account, a verification code is sent to that number. They would need access to your phone to receive the code and complete the process.
6. Why is Blizzard asking for my phone number?
Blizzard requires a phone number for security purposes, including account verification, SMS Protect, and preventing abuse.
7. Does Blizzard sell my phone number to third parties?
According to Activision Blizzard, they do not sell personal information collected through their websites.
8. Can I use a VOIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) number for my Battle.net account?
While some users have reported success with VOIP numbers like Google Voice, Blizzard may restrict their use. Check Blizzard’s current policy for the most up-to-date information.
9. Can I get banned for sharing my Battle.net account?
Yes, sharing your Battle.net account is a violation of Blizzard’s Terms of Service and can result in a ban, especially if it’s done for purposes like boosting or real-money trading.
10. Can I merge two Battle.net accounts?
Account merging is limited, especially in regards to Overwatch accounts on different platforms. You can typically only merge one account from each platform (Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo) to your Battle.net account.
11. Can I change the country registered on my Battle.net account?
Yes, but it may require contacting Blizzard Support and providing proof of residency in the new country.
12. Why won’t Battle.net accept my phone number?
Possible reasons include incorrect number entry, incorrect country registration, or the number being previously used on a VOIP plan. Ensure all information is accurate and that your number meets Blizzard’s requirements.
13. Can I gift Battle.net Balance to someone else?
Yes, you can purchase Battle.net Balance as a gift through the Battle.net shop. The recipient will receive an email with instructions on how to claim the gift.
14. How many times can I change my Battle.net display name (BattleTag)?
You can usually change your BattleTag once for free. Subsequent changes may require payment.
15. Does Battle.net delete inactive accounts?
Blizzard may delete inactive accounts after a prolonged period of inactivity, but this varies depending on the specific game and their current policies. It’s best to log in periodically to keep your account active.
Staying Informed: The Ever-Evolving Landscape of Online Gaming Security
The world of online gaming is constantly evolving, and with it, so do the security measures and policies implemented by companies like Blizzard Entertainment. It’s essential to stay informed about the latest changes and best practices for protecting your accounts.
Resources like the Games Learning Society provide valuable insights into the social, cultural, and educational aspects of gaming, helping players understand the broader context of online interactions and security. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.
By understanding the reasons behind security measures like the phone number requirement, and by following best practices for account protection, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable gaming experience for yourself and others.