Why does Blizzard need SMS?

Why Does Blizzard Need SMS?

Blizzard Entertainment, the developer of popular online games such as World of Warcraft, StarCraft, and Overwatch, has recently introduced a new feature that requires players to provide their phone number to access certain game features. This feature is called SMS Protect, and it has sparked controversy among gamers who are questioning the necessity of this requirement.

Limiting Toxicity and Cheating

One of the main reasons Blizzard needs SMS is to limit toxicity and cheating in their games. With SMS Protect, Blizzard can better monitor and prevent malicious activities such as account hacking and phishing. By verifying the phone number of a player, Blizzard can ensure that the player is the genuine owner of the account, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

SMS Protect: A Solution to Combat Disruptive Behavior

What is SMS Protect?
SMS Protect is a security feature that requires players to provide a valid phone number to access certain game features. This feature is designed to prevent cheating and disruptive behavior in online games.

How does SMS Protect work?
SMS Protect works by sending a verification code to the player’s phone number. The player must enter the code correctly to verify their identity and access the game feature.

Benefits of SMS Protect
The benefits of SMS Protect include:

• Reduced Cheating: SMS Protect reduces the risk of account hacking and phishing, making it more difficult for cheaters to access game accounts.
• Improved Player Experience: By preventing disruptive behavior, SMS Protect improves the overall player experience and makes the game more enjoyable for legitimate players.
• Enhanced Security: SMS Protect adds an additional layer of security to Blizzard’s games, making it more difficult for hackers and cheaters to access sensitive information.

Why Can’t I Play Without SMS Protect?

If you have played the first Overwatch game after June 9, 2021, you may be able to play without SMS Protect. However, this is only an exception, and not all games are exempt from SMS Protect. If you’re a new player or have never played Overwatch before, you will need to provide your phone number to access certain game features.

Alternative Options

If you don’t want to provide your phone number, you can consider the following alternatives:

• Burner Phone Service: You can sign up for a burner phone service, which allows you to create a temporary phone number that can be used for SMS Protect.
• Ask a Friend or Family Member: If you have a friend or family member who is willing, you can ask them to create a burner phone number and share it with you.
• Wait Until You’re Eligible: If you’re not eligible for SMS Protect, you can wait until you meet the eligibility criteria.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Blizzard needs SMS to limit toxicity and cheating in their games. SMS Protect is a security feature that verifies a player’s identity and reduces the risk of account hacking and phishing. While it may be inconvenient for some players, SMS Protect is an essential feature that ensures a fair and enjoyable gaming experience for all players.

FAQs

• Why do I need to provide my phone number?
You need to provide your phone number to access certain game features and to ensure the security of your account.

• How does SMS Protect work?
SMS Protect sends a verification code to your phone number, which you must enter correctly to verify your identity.

• What happens if I don’t have a phone number?
If you don’t have a phone number, you can consider signing up for a burner phone service or asking a friend or family member to create a burner phone number for you.

• Is SMS Protect only for Overwatch?
No, SMS Protect is a feature that is being introduced across all Blizzard games.