How to Delete a Linked Account on RS3: A Comprehensive Guide
Deleting a linked account on RuneScape 3 (RS3) isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. The key to understanding this process lies in differentiating between third-party linked accounts and accounts linked to a Jagex Account. You cannot directly delete characters or accounts linked to a Jagex Account. However, you can unlink third-party accounts, such as Google or Facebook. To clarify, this guide will delve into unlinking third-party accounts and discuss the broader implications of RuneScape account management.
Unlinking Third-Party Accounts
If you’ve linked your RuneScape account to a third-party provider like Google or Facebook, you can unlink these. Here’s how:
- Log into the RuneScape Website: Navigate to the official RuneScape website and log in with your credentials.
- Access Account Settings: Once logged in, find and click on “Account Settings”. This is usually found within the user menu.
- Navigate to Linked Account Settings: In your Account Settings, look for the section labeled “Linked Account Settings”. Click this.
- Identify the Provider: You’ll see a list of third-party providers linked to your RuneScape account. Locate the one you wish to unlink.
- Unlink the Provider: There should be an “Unlink Provider” button or similar option next to the provider’s name. Click this.
- Approve Prompts: Follow any prompts or confirmations that appear to complete the unlinking process.
It is crucial to understand that unlinking a third-party account does not delete your RuneScape account. It only disconnects that specific login method. You’ll still have your RuneScape account, and may use a different login method if one is available.
Important Note about Jagex Accounts
If your RuneScape character is linked to a Jagex Account, the process becomes significantly different. You cannot remove characters or accounts linked to a Jagex Account individually. This is a fundamental aspect of the Jagex Account system, designed for enhanced security. The Jagex Account acts as a central hub for all of your associated RuneScape characters.
Deleting Your RuneScape Account: The Full Picture
To effectively delete your RuneScape game data, and associated Jagex Account, you need to request the removal of your personal data. This is not a simple deletion, but a permanent disabling process. Here’s how:
- Request Data Removal: You must complete a specific form provided by Jagex on their support site, requesting the removal of personal data and the permanent disabling of the account.
- Jagex Account Implications: If you use a Jagex Account, this request will disable ALL characters linked to that account.
- Choose a Character: When completing the form, you might be asked to log in with a character. The character you select doesn’t matter for the account disabling, the removal of personal data request will be for all associated accounts.
- Permanent Action: Be absolutely certain, this action is irreversible. Once your account data is removed, it cannot be recovered.
Starting Over: New Account Creation
One of the frequently asked questions is whether it’s possible to reuse an email address after deleting an account. The answer is yes. You can use the same email to create a new RuneScape account. However, be aware that deleting your old account also removes the associated game data, including progress in both RS3 and OSRS if those games are linked to the same login.
Additional Considerations for RS3 Account Management
It’s essential to be aware of various aspects of account management beyond simple unlinking or deletion:
- No Character Deletion: You cannot delete a character from a Jagex Account once it’s been imported. This is due to the security measures of the Jagex Account system.
- Multiple Accounts: While you can have multiple RuneScape game accounts, they must be used by the person who created them. Sharing is strictly against the rules.
- Data Clearing: To clear local data like game settings, you can delete the game’s cache folder. This folder usually has a name like ‘Jagex’ and can be found in the user directory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify how to manage your RS3 account:
1. Can I unlink my Google account from RuneScape?
Yes, you can unlink your Google account by following the “Unlinking Third-Party Accounts” steps above. This will disconnect your Google login but keep your RuneScape account intact.
2. Can I delete a single character within a Jagex account?
No, characters within a Jagex Account cannot be deleted individually. Deleting a Jagex account means deleting access to all characters linked to it.
3. Will my old RuneScape account be deleted if I don’t log in for a while?
No, old, inactive accounts do not get deleted. However, they can be reset after a certain period of inactivity.
4. How do I remove RuneScape access from my Google account?
Go to your Google account’s app permissions, find RuneScape, and select “Remove Access”. This will disconnect RuneScape from accessing your Google data.
5. What does “Unlink Account” mean?
Unlinking an account simply disconnects the login method or a connected third-party provider, It does not delete the game account itself.
6. If I start over in RuneScape, do I need a new account?
To start with a completely new account and game data, you will need to create a new RuneScape account using an email address. Your old account would need to have been removed via the request process mentioned above for a clean slate.
7. Can I have two accounts on RuneScape?
Yes, you can have multiple RuneScape accounts, but they should only be used by the person who created them. Account sharing is against the game rules.
8. How do I clear my cache in RuneScape?
While the RuneScape client is loading, click the “Options” cog. Find “Cache folder” and delete the entire folder.
9. How do I delete linked email account from my Jagex account?
Jagex Accounts themselves do not allow for the removal of linked emails. If you are using a linked email for your jagex account, you will likely need to contact support to have it removed. Otherwise, you would need to proceed with removing your Jagex account.
10. Can I downgrade from a Jagex account?
No, downgrading from a Jagex Account is not possible. This is a design feature to enhance security and cannot be reversed.
11. Is buying RS3 gold illegal?
Selling or buying RS3 gold is not illegal in a legal sense, but it is against the game’s rules and can lead to account bans.
12. How do I remove an authenticator from my RS3 account?
You can disable your authenticator via account settings. Select ‘Lost your authenticator’ for instructions. If you have issues, check Jagex’s support page.
13. How do I start off RuneScape if I’m a new player?
New players begin on Tutorial Island, where Reginald will guide you through the basic game mechanics.
14. How do I link my RS3 account to a Jagex Account?
Log into RuneScape account settings for the character, press “Upgrade”, and follow the instructions to create a Jagex Account.
15. Can I play RS3 and OSRS simultaneously with the same character?
No, you can’t play the same character in both games simultaneously. You can play both games at once, but you would need to use different characters.
Final Thoughts
Managing linked accounts on RS3 involves understanding the crucial difference between third-party logins and Jagex Accounts. While you can freely unlink third-party providers, characters tied to a Jagex Account cannot be removed individually. If you need to remove access to a specific character permanently, you would need to request the removal of your personal data and permanently disable the associated Jagex Account. Understanding these nuances ensures that you can manage your RuneScape account effectively and make informed decisions about your account security and access.