Authenicator's are now mandatory...

#1 - Oct. 16, 2011, 5:13 a.m.

I renewed my sub after not playing for almost 6 months. After the ordeal of taking my old authenticator off (reset my droid with the app), I didn't bother putting it back on. 3 days later I get back from work to see all my armor gone and not a single copper left in my bank! Account security is almost non existant if you are not using an authenticator. I just felt like ranting... Seriously tho, 3 days without an authenticator and I got hacked. If you aren't using one, get one. There seem to be even more free options for it now, or you can just pay a few bucks for one. THEY ARE WELL WORTH IT.

The real reason I came here tho is I really wanted to commend the Blizzard support staff, specifically the GMs on Earthen Ring (not sure if I'm supposed to name them). Anyway, after going through the account security nonsense after putting a ticket in on the game client, I was immediately PM'd by the GM after logging in. He was extremely friendly and told me it wouldn't take long at all, being very sociable while he was taking care of the problems, while also making sure of some of the specifics on my account. My account was fully restored within ten minutes of being logged back in!

Blizzard policies and security may be horrible at times, but their support staff is terrific. Thanks a lot guys :)

Vrakthris

Support Forum Agent

#57 - Oct. 16, 2011, 9:59 p.m.

10/16/2011 03:12 AMPosted by Realhealz
All I wanted to do was say how much the authenticators help while expressing my gratitude toward the blizzard staff.

Your sentiment is certainly noted, Realhealz, thank you.

10/16/2011 02:38 PMPosted by Geemo
Am I only the one who finds it extremely ridiculous that you have to have several security measures in place JUST to PLAY a video game?

As with anything that has value, Geemo, it may be necessary to take steps to protect it.

World of Warcraft is a fairly popular game. There are virtual items and currency that has a value to those who are willing to pay. For that reason those who have those items are potentially vulnerable to those who would try to steal them and turn around and sell them to others in the game. It is often the case that a person's friends/guildmates are the recipients for the stolen currency when they take part in purchasing gold.

http://us.blizzard.com/support/article/25455

While most people may not have an issue with their account's security, others may. It doesn't necessarily mean that they are failing in their efforts to protect themselves, nor does it mean it is entirely "their fault" they were compromised.

That doesn't mean that we aren't going to stress methods of protection/security, including picking up an Authenticator, but understand methods of compromise are becoming increasingly more complex and blaming the victim isn't productive.

http://us.battle.net/en/security/commitment