MMO players knows that account security is always an issue, especially when login screens and in-game tips often remind us not to give out our login information to anyone. When accounts do become compromised, the company is rarely able to compensate players for lost content.
Well, Blizzard is taking extra measures with its MMO World of Warcraft with the release of a Blizzard Authenticator, a keychain that also acts as a code generator. According to Gamasutra, this device will give users a six digit code in addition to their login and password to "help prevent unauthorized account access." The keychain costs 6.50 USD and generate a unique code per user valid only once for a limited time. This code would then be required to access a WoW account once linked to it.
The code isn't meant to replace the player's existing login and password, but add extra security in case players feel they need to take this precaution. If the code is ever lost, Blizzard's account services team can help retrieve it by verifying some secure information. Blizzard co-founder and CEO Mike Morhaime explains, “It’s important to us that World of Warcraft offers a safe and enjoyable game environment. One aspect of that is helping players avoid account compromise, so we’re pleased to make this additional layer of security available to them.”
For now, the Blizzard Authenticator will only be available at the Paris Blizzard Invitational between June 28-29, but it should soon be available for purchase from Blizzard's online store.
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