Can't access old WoW account

#0 - Dec. 3, 2009, 10:55 p.m.

I already emailed Blizzard twice about this (first was a week ago, second only a day or two), but I don't know how long it usually takes for a response, or if I even sent it to the right department (Billing Account Services). I describe my issue so you guys can hopefully give me some advice; thanks in advance for taking the time to read this:

I canceled my WoW about a year ago due to issues arising from being stationed in Korea, but now that I'm back stateside, I wanted to reactivate it. I dug up my Direct2Drive key and re-downloaded the client, but when I try to log in, it tells me I need to merge my account.

When I follow the link provided in the error message and it asks me for my old WoW account, I used the same login I used in the WoW client. However, it tells me that my login is invalid.

When I attempt password recovery, it tells me that the email address I supply isn't the one attached to the account.

When I try the "I don't have access to this email account" link, it says the game key I supplied is not the one attached to the account. Conversely, when I try using my old Burning Crusade key to upgrade the new account I made through Battle.net, it tells me that it's already in use (I also tried using this key for the email-reset link). The issue with the keys is irrelevant, though, since it tells me that either my login is incorrect, or I'm supplying the wrong email (I've tried every email I typically use).

Basically, I'm incapable of using my WoW login anywhere on the site, but the WoW client takes it just fine (and tells me to merge it). This is particularly aggravating as I can't upgrade to Burning Crusade, and I can't access any of my old characters.

Has anything like this happened to anyone else? It's such an oddly inconsistent problem, unless my login credentials are held in the grip of quantum uncertainty, being both invalid and valid at the same time. I appreciate any advice you guys can give to help me get my old account back.

Syndri

#7 - Dec. 4, 2009, 12:27 a.m.

It's possible that your old WoW account was compromised, and so the original email and password changed. Can you provide me the name and realm of a character on this account?

Please note that you will receive the "This account needs to be converted to a Battle.net account..." message even if you type in an incorrect password.

Syndri

#9 - Dec. 4, 2009, 12:48 a.m.

It appears the account in question, Mcglitchy, was recently closed due to illicit activities performed by characters on it. This information, in addition to the current email address registered to the account (it does not look at all valid), greatly suggests compromise. =/

Don't worry, though. We are in a position to assist, and will be happy to do so. You will need to contact our Billing & Account Services department, though. While our call times are a bit lengthy now, they do generally dissipate as it draws closer to 8pm PST. Moreover, our Billing offices are now open on weekends; so, if worst comes to worst, you could always phone back later, at a more convenient time.

In the meantime, though, I'd recommend that you really focus on securing your computer and email address. Inactive accounts are not immune to compromise, and just because you're not playing World of Warcraft every day doesn't mean you haven't stumbled across some malware. It's never a bad idea or time to ramp your security, anyway. Right? :)

Here's some great step-by-step recommendations (software tips, email security suggestions, etc):

Computer Security Recommendations

http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?topicId=1778038509&sid=1

Once you've regained access to your account, you'll want to sweep it for any losses. This sticky will walk you through how to report those losses to us:

Account Compromise Info Center

http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?topicId=14318909866&sid=1

Also, while our Billing staff may be able to assist with the account's closure, I would still recommend that you fire off an email to [email protected], reporting the possible compromise and asking for a review of the closure itself. Our Account Administrators will be glad to help, and will respond as soon as possible.

Syndri

#11 - Dec. 4, 2009, 1:06 a.m.

Please let me know if you've any additional question or concerns, Mcglitchy. Happy to help insofar as I am able. :)