Did Overwatch 2 Remove SMS?

Overwatch 2 has partially removed the SMS Protect requirement, allowing certain players to access the game without needing to provide a phone number, but this exemption applies primarily to existing players who have a connected Battle.net account and have played the original Overwatch since June 9, 2021. The SMS Protect system was initially implemented to combat cheating and disruptive behavior, but it has been relaxed for a significant portion of the player base, although new accounts and those not connected to Battle.net will still need to meet the SMS Protect requirements.

Overview of the SMS Requirement in Overwatch 2

The decision to enforce SMS verification was met with criticism, as it not only affected cheaters but also legitimate players, especially those using prepaid phone numbers. Blizzard’s move to relax this requirement for a large segment of players addresses some of the concerns raised by the community, aiming to balance game security with player accessibility.

Understanding the exemptions

Players who have been exempted from the SMS Protect requirement can directly log in to their Battle.net accounts and access Overwatch 2 without the need for phone number verification. This change reflects Blizzard’s efforts to listen to community feedback and make the game more inclusive, while still maintaining measures to protect against cheating and ensure a fair gaming environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below are answers to common questions regarding the SMS Protect requirement in Overwatch 2, providing clarity on the current state of phone number verification for players:

1. What is SMS Protect in Overwatch 2?

• SMS Protect is a security measure implemented by Blizzard to require players to link a phone number to their Battle.net account to play Overwatch 2, aimed at reducing cheating and toxic behavior.

1. Did Overwatch 2 remove SMS requirements for all players?

• No, the SMS requirement has been removed for existing players with a connected Battle.net account who played the original Overwatch after June 9, 2021. New accounts and those not connected to Battle.net still need to comply with SMS Protect.

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

• Existing players who meet the specified criteria can play without adding a new phone number. However, new players or those without a connected Battle.net account will still need to provide a phone number.

1. How do I activate SMS Protect for Overwatch 2?

• To activate SMS Protect, log in to your Battle.net account, go to Account Details, click on Phone Number, enter your number, and follow the verification process.

1. Why does Overwatch 2 require a postpaid phone number?

• The initial requirement for a postpaid phone number was aimed at preventing cheaters, who often use prepaid numbers. However, this has been relaxed, and prepaid phone numbers are now accepted for most players.

1. Can I use a prepaid phone number for Overwatch 2?

• Yes, prepaid phone numbers are now accepted for playing Overwatch 2, although there might be some limitations based on the service provider.

1. How do I verify my phone number on Battle.net for Overwatch 2?

• Verification involves logging into your Battle.net account, adding your phone number under Account Details, and completing the verification code process sent via SMS.

1. Why can’t I use my phone number for two Overwatch 2 accounts?

• Each phone number can only be linked to a single Battle.net account due to security policies.

1. Does Battle.net sell my phone number?

• Blizzard emphasizes that it does not sell personal information, including phone numbers, and takes user privacy seriously.

1. Why is Overwatch 2 still asking for SMS Protect?

   • SMS Protect remains in place for new accounts and those not connected to Battle.net to protect against cheating and ensure a safe gaming environment.

2. Can I bypass the phone number requirement for Overwatch 2?

   • The only recognized bypass is for existing players who have played Overwatch since June 9, 2021, and have a connected Battle.net account. Otherwise, using a burner phone service might be an option, but it’s not officially recommended.

3. Why did Blizzard remove the SMS requirement for some players?

   • The decision was made to address community concerns and make the game more accessible, while continuing to combat cheating through other means.

4. How do I activate my phone number in Overwatch 2 if it’s not working?

   • Ensure your phone number is correct, not previously used on a VOIP plan, and that your country and number match the details on your Battle.net account.

5. Can I use WhatsApp or similar services for Overwatch 2 SMS verification?

   • No, messaging apps like WhatsApp are not supported for SMS verification. A direct phone number is required.

6. Why does Battle.net need a phone number for some games?

   • Requiring a phone number can help prevent cheating, ensure account security, and is sometimes necessary for accessing certain in-game features.