When Did RuneScape Delete Old Accounts?

The question of when and why RuneScape accounts might be deleted is a common one among players, both returning veterans and those newly curious about the game’s history. The short answer is: RuneScape doesn’t automatically delete accounts solely based on age. However, there are conditions under which accounts may become inaccessible or permanently disabled. Understanding these nuances requires a deeper dive into Jagex’s policies and historical practices.

The primary driver for account inaccessibility is inactivity. Before 2009, RuneScape had a different policy regarding inactive accounts. However, in 2009, the rules changed significantly. Prior to this, accounts could remain untouched for extensive periods. After this pivotal year, a policy was introduced where inactive accounts were subject to deletion after 5 years of their last login. There are, however, important exceptions:

• Player Moderators: Accounts that have, at any point, held the status of Player Moderator are not subject to this inactivity deletion rule. These accounts are maintained, recognizing the community contribution of these individuals.
• Long-Term Membership: Accounts that have had a combined membership period of more than 3 years (not necessarily consecutive) are also exempt from deletion due to inactivity. Jagex respects the investment of these dedicated players.

It’s crucial to understand that “deletion” in this context often refers to the inactivation of the account, not complete removal from Jagex’s databases. While an inactive account may not be directly accessible without recovery steps, the core account data may still exist. Moreover, accounts associated with rule-breaking activities will be permanently banned and unable to be recovered. This means that if an account has been used for macro use, real-world trading, or other violations, it faces permanent removal, irrespective of the age of the account or whether the account has been inactive.

Understanding Account Recovery and Deletion

The distinction between an inactive account and a truly deleted account is important, especially when trying to recover access to an old character. While the game servers might not actively delete accounts that meet the inactivity rule, Jagex has processes in place to handle account removal and data deletion requests initiated by users themselves.

How Account Deletion Works

• User-Initiated Deletion: Players can now request the permanent deletion of their Jagex account and all associated characters. This process is irreversible. When doing so, players will need to select one character to proceed with the request, and Jagex aims to resolve these requests within 30 days of receipt, though complex situations could take up to 90 days. This is done through a dedicated form that users can submit. This type of deletion is final and means that account data and characters are permanently removed.
• Jagex Account Deactivation: If you log in using a Jagex account, submitting a data removal request disables both the Jagex account and all associated characters. Unlike the old inactivity policy, this is an active decision made by the user.

Recovering Old Accounts

If your old account has become inaccessible due to inactivity and has not been deleted due to rule-breaking or a user-initiated request, the account recovery process is still an option:

• Account Recovery: Jagex provides a dedicated Account Recovery page where users can initiate the recovery process. The first step involves entering either your username or login email and then following the on-screen prompts. If these prompts aren’t sufficient, the system will lead you to a recovery form for Jagex support to review.
• Information is Key: Recovering an account depends heavily on having sufficient information for the verification process. This can include previous login emails, payment details, security questions, and so forth. If this information is lacking, account recovery can become extremely difficult.
• Email-Less Recovery: If you no longer have access to the original email linked to the account, you can still attempt recovery through the “Contact Jagex Support” option and submit the form with the correct login information.
• Jagex Account Security: Once you’ve regained access to your old account, it’s crucial to upgrade to a Jagex account, which provides enhanced security measures to prevent future issues like hijacking.

RuneScape Classic and Account Status

It’s important to note that while RuneScape Classic has been offline since August 6, 2018, the accounts that were associated with the classic game still exist. Players who had a RuneScape Classic account would find they need to begin in either RS3 or OSRS (Old School RuneScape) from the beginning, but the original account is, in principle, recoverable using the aforementioned process. However, these accounts will face the same criteria regarding activity for deletion from the current RuneScape database.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To provide further clarity, here are 15 frequently asked questions about RuneScape account deletion and recovery:

Account Deletion and Inactivity

1. Does RuneScape delete inactive accounts?
   • Yes, accounts inactive for 5 years after their last login may be subject to deletion, however, there are notable exceptions for Player Moderators and those with over three years of combined membership.
2. If my account was a Player Moderator, will it be deleted?
   • No, accounts that were Player Moderators at any time are exempt from the deletion policy.
3. Does my length of membership protect my account from deletion?
   • Yes, if you had more than 3 years of membership (non-consecutive), your account will not be deleted due to inactivity.
4. Is it possible to recover an old inactive account after being considered ‘deleted’?
   • Yes, the term “deleted” often means inaccessible; if it wasn’t deleted due to user requests or breaking the rules, you can use the Account Recovery process to try and regain access.
5. Does RuneScape Classic account status impact potential deletion of my account?
   • No, while Classic servers are closed, associated accounts exist and will be handled with the same deletion and recovery criteria as other accounts within the database.

Account Recovery

6. How do I start the account recovery process?
   • Go to the Account Recovery page and enter your username or email. Then follow the prompts.
7. What if I no longer have access to the email linked to my account?
   • You can still try recovery using the “Contact Jagex Support” option on the recovery page and submitting a support form, it can be harder to recover but it is not impossible.
8. Why is it hard to recover my old RuneScape account?
   • If you lack sufficient information such as old emails, payment details, or security questions, it makes recovery more difficult.
9. What is a Jagex account and should I upgrade?
   • A Jagex account enhances security. It is strongly recommended to upgrade as it provides more protection against hijacking.
10. Is there a difference between “deleting” my account and a Jagex account being disabled?
    • Yes, user-initiated deletion permanently removes account data. Disabling a Jagex account via the support page only disables access.

Other Account Related Questions

11. Can Jagex ban your IP address?
    • Yes, if multiple accounts on the same IP are used for botting or other rule-breaking activities, your IP can be blocked from the Jagex server.
12. Does Jagex monitor chat logs?
    • Yes, Jagex monitors chat logs, particularly those that suggest potential harm to self or others, and might supply information to authorities.
13. Is account sharing allowed?
    • No, Jagex can recognize account sharing by detecting frequent login activity from different IPs and computers, which is a bannable offense.
14. Can you have multiple RuneScape accounts with a single email?
    • Yes, you can create multiple RuneScape accounts with variations of the same email for login, provided the registered email address remains constant.
15. If my account was banned, can I appeal it?
    • If an account has been banned and it’s appealable, you can submit an appeal through the account settings.

Understanding the specific rules surrounding RuneScape accounts – specifically regarding inactivity and deletion – helps returning players understand how to regain access, while new players gain knowledge of how to safeguard their own accounts. By following these guidelines and using the appropriate account recovery processes, players can keep their characters safe and continue enjoying the world of Gielinor.