Why doesn t Blizzard accept prepaid phones?

Why Doesn’t Blizzard Accept Prepaid Phones?

In recent years, Blizzard Entertainment, the developer of popular games such as Overwatch and World of Warcraft, has made significant changes to its SMS Protect policy, affecting millions of players worldwide. One of the most notable changes is the inability to link prepaid phone numbers to Battle.net accounts, leaving many players wondering: Why doesn’t Blizzard accept prepaid phones?

Blizzard’s Explanation

According to Blizzard, the primary reason for not accepting prepaid phone numbers is the FCC’s regulation on number portability. In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires phone service providers to allow customers to keep their phone numbers when switching to a new carrier. Prepaid phone numbers are often tied to a specific carrier and cannot be easily transferred or used with other carriers.

Types of Phone Numbers Not Accepted by Blizzard

Blizzard’s policy specifically prohibits the use of prepaid phone numbers, VOIP numbers, and text-only and internet phone services. This is because these types of phone numbers are often associated with temporary or shared accounts, making it difficult for Blizzard to verify the identity of the account holder.

How Prepaid Phone Numbers are Issued

Prepaid phone numbers are typically issued by mobile carriers to customers who want to use a temporary or disposable phone number. These numbers are often linked to a specific carrier and cannot be easily transferred or used with other carriers. In contrast, postpaid phone numbers are linked to a specific account and can be easily transferred to a new carrier.

Blizzard’s Alternative Solution

Blizzard has introduced an alternative solution for players who want to use a phone number for their Battle.net account. Players can link a postpaid phone number or a number from a trusted carrier to their account. Blizzard has also implemented measures to prevent the use of fake or disposable phone numbers, such as verifying phone numbers through text messages and email confirmations.

Consequences of Using a Prepaid Phone Number

If a player tries to link a prepaid phone number to their Battle.net account, they may face account suspension or termination. This is because Blizzard’s system may detect that the phone number is not valid or is being used by multiple accounts. In addition, using a prepaid phone number may compromise the security of the account, as it can be easily shared or compromised.

Alternatives to Prepaid Phone Numbers

For players who need a temporary or disposable phone number, there are alternative solutions available. Some players use Google Voice or burner phone numbers, which are designed for temporary use. Other players use virtual phone numbers, which can be easily transferred or terminated.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Blizzard’s decision to not accept prepaid phone numbers is largely driven by the FCC’s regulation on number portability and the need to verify the identity of account holders. While this may present some challenges for players who use prepaid phone numbers, there are alternative solutions available. By understanding Blizzard’s policies and alternatives, players can ensure that their account is secure and functional.

Key Points

• Prepaid phone numbers are not accepted by Blizzard due to the FCC’s regulation on number portability.
• Postpaid phone numbers or numbers from trusted carriers can be used to link to Battle.net accounts.
• Using a prepaid phone number may compromise the security of the account.
• Alternative solutions, such as Google Voice or virtual phone numbers, are available for temporary or disposable phone numbers.
• Account suspension or termination may occur if a prepaid phone number is used to link to a Battle.net account.

Table: Phone Number Types

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