How to Get Past 2-Step Verification on Ubisoft: A Comprehensive Guide

The dreaded 2-Step Verification (2SV), also known as two-factor authentication (2FA), stands as a formidable barrier protecting your Ubisoft account. However, what happens when you are locked out? It’s a frustrating situation, but thankfully, there are several avenues to explore. Getting past Ubisoft’s 2-Step Verification hinges on understanding your recovery options and, in rare cases, recognizing potential security vulnerabilities (though we strongly advise against exploiting these vulnerabilities).

Your best bet is to use legitimate recovery methods. If you have recovery codes, use them. If you don’t have recovery codes, see if Ubisoft can send you an email to [email protected] with the subject line 2-Step Verification Recovery Codes. If those don’t work, contact Ubisoft Support directly.

Let’s delve into the options in detail:

Understanding Your 2-Step Verification Options with Ubisoft

Ubisoft’s 2SV system, when properly configured, is designed to be secure. It relies on two factors: something you know (your password) and something you have (a verification code from your authenticator app or SMS). Bypassing it without proper authorization or access to your registered devices or recovery codes is extremely difficult and potentially illegal.

1. Using Recovery Codes

This is the primary and recommended method. When you initially enabled 2SV, Ubisoft provided you with a set of recovery codes. These codes are designed for situations precisely like this – when you’ve lost access to your primary verification method.

• Locate your Recovery Codes: You should have saved these codes in a safe place, either digitally or physically.
• Enter the Code: When prompted for your 2SV code, look for an option that says “Use Recovery Code” or similar. Enter one of your unused recovery codes.

Important: Each recovery code can only be used once. Once used, discard it.

2. Accessing the Registered Authenticator App

If you still have access to the authenticator app (e.g., Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator) on your smartphone or tablet, simply generate a new code and enter it into the Ubisoft login screen.

• Authenticator App Still Functional: The authenticator app generates a new code every 30 seconds or so. Enter the current code displayed in the app.

3. Utilizing SMS Verification (If Enabled)

If you opted for SMS verification when setting up 2SV, Ubisoft will send a code to your registered phone number.

• Check Your Text Messages: Look for a text message from Ubisoft containing the verification code.
• Enter the Code Promptly: These codes are usually time-sensitive, so enter it as soon as you receive it.

4. Contacting Ubisoft Support

If you’ve exhausted all other options, contacting Ubisoft Support is your next step. Be prepared to provide proof of ownership of the account. This might include:

• Proof of Purchase: Receipts for games purchased through the account.
• Account Details: Information about your account, such as your username, email address, and date of birth.
• Security Questions: Answers to any security questions you may have set up.

Ubisoft Support will guide you through a verification process and, if successful, help you regain access to your account, potentially disabling 2SV temporarily or allowing you to update your 2SV settings.

5. Disabling 2-Step Verification with Support’s Assistance

In cases where you’ve completely lost access to your authenticator app, phone number, and recovery codes, Ubisoft Support can, after verifying your identity, disable 2SV. This will allow you to log in with just your password, but immediately re-enable 2SV with a new authenticator app or phone number.

Important: This is a last resort and requires thorough identity verification by Ubisoft.

What NOT to Do: Avoiding Risky and Potentially Illegal Methods

Attempting to bypass 2SV through unauthorized means is extremely risky and may have legal consequences.

• Do NOT attempt to “hack” or crack the 2SV system. This is illegal and could lead to serious legal trouble.
• Do NOT use third-party tools or services that claim to bypass 2SV. These tools are often scams or contain malware.
• Be wary of phishing attempts. Scammers may try to trick you into giving them your 2SV code or recovery codes. Always verify the authenticity of any communication before providing sensitive information.

Prevention is Key: Safeguarding Your Ubisoft Account

The best way to avoid getting locked out of your account is to take preventative measures.

• Store Your Recovery Codes Securely: Print them out and store them in a safe place, or use a password manager.
• Keep Your Contact Information Up-to-Date: Ensure that your registered phone number and email address are current.
• Back Up Your Authenticator App: Some authenticator apps allow you to back up your settings to the cloud. This can be helpful if you lose your phone.
• Consider Multiple 2SV Methods: If possible, enable both authenticator app and SMS verification for redundancy.
• Regularly Review Your Account Security Settings: Check your Ubisoft account settings periodically to ensure that your security settings are up-to-date.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I find my Ubisoft recovery code?

These recovery codes are sent in an email from [email protected] with the subject line “2-Step Verification Recovery Codes.” If you cannot find this email, we recommend checking your SPAM or Junk folder. When enabling the feature on a device, you might also request your recovery codes be sent in a text message.

2. How to disable 2-step verification Ubisoft without recovery codes?

You cannot directly disable 2-step verification without recovery codes. You need to contact Ubisoft Support, prove your identity, and request they disable it for you.

3. What happens if I forgot my 2-step verification code?

Use your recovery codes. If you don’t have them, contact Ubisoft Support.

4. How do I change my phone number on Ubisoft?

Navigate to the Account information page on the Ubisoft website. Scroll down to the “Private information” section. Select “Edit” and then “Add a phone number.” You may need to verify your account before making these changes.

5. Why does Ubisoft Connect keep asking for 2-step verification?

2-Step verification is an optional security feature for your Ubisoft account. Once set up, every login to your account or Ubisoft Connect PC on untrusted devices will have to be confirmed with a unique code. Ensure your device is trusted to avoid repeated prompts.

6. How long is the Ubisoft failed login attempts lockout?

If you are temporarily suspended due to failed login attempts, waiting 20-60 minutes between new sign-in attempts should help to lift the ban. In some cases, you may need to wait up to 24 hours.

7. How do I get a new email verification for Ubisoft?

Head to the Account Management login page and log in with your Ubisoft account information. You will be prompted to verify your account. If you aren’t prompted, check your spam folder for the verification email. If you still can’t find it, contact Ubisoft Support.

8. Do you need a phone number for 2-step verification?

While not always mandatory, a phone number is highly recommended for 2-step verification. It provides a convenient backup option for receiving verification codes via SMS.

9. Can you have 2 phone numbers for 2-step verification?

Yes, you can often add multiple phone numbers to your account for 2-step verification. This allows you to receive verification codes on multiple devices.

10. What if I lost my phone with Google Authenticator?

If your lost phone has Google Authenticator on it, you need to secure your accounts connected to the app by logging in with an alternate method (e.g., recovery codes), and resetting the 2FA settings. You should also erase your phone remotely if possible. You can then add Google Authenticator to a new phone and re-link it to your accounts.

11. How do I find my 2-step verification code on my iPhone?

Your 2-step verification code is not stored on your iPhone. The 2-step verification code is set up by going to Settings > [your name] > Sign-In & Security. Tap Turn On Two-Factor Authentication, then tap Continue. Enter a trusted phone number (the number you’ll use to receive verification codes), then tap Next. A verification code is sent to your trusted phone number. Use the authenticator app to get a new code if needed.

12. How do I recover my Ubisoft save game?

Open your account ID folder, located in the Ubisoft Connect PC installation folder. By default, you can find your account ID folder, marked by a long string of numbers and letters, in C:Program Files (x86)UbisoftUbisoft Game Launcher/savegames/. Paste the backup folder into the account ID folder.

13. Can I recover a Ubisoft account?

Yes, Ubisoft provides a process to recover access to your account if you lose access to it for any reason. Contact Ubisoft Support for assistance.

14. How long does Ubisoft lock you out for?

The temporary suspension duration varies, and if you’ve triggered it, it’s recommended to take a break from trying to log in for an hour before trying again. If you’re still not able to log in, you may need to wait up to 24 hours.

15. What is better than 2-step verification?

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is superior to 2FA. MFA utilizes two or more independent authentication factors, offering a more robust security posture compared to relying solely on two factors.

Conclusion

While 2-Step Verification can be a hurdle when you’re locked out, it’s an essential layer of security for your Ubisoft account. By understanding your recovery options, taking preventative measures, and avoiding risky workarounds, you can ensure a secure and enjoyable gaming experience. Education and awareness are the best defenses against security breaches, and understanding how these systems work can lead to more informed decisions about online safety. You might find interesting research related to this at the Games Learning Society, whose work can be explored further at GamesLearningSociety.org.