How to Secure Your Battle.net Account with Mobile

This guide walks you through adding a mobile authenticator to your Battle.net account, which adds a second layer of security beyond your password. You’ll need your phone, the Battle.net mobile app (or a third-party authenticator like Google Authenticator), and access to your current login credentials. By the end, you’ll have a one-time code requirement that makes unauthorized access significantly harder.

What You’ll Need

• Your Battle.net account email and password.
• A smartphone with the Battle.net mobile app installed (iOS or Android), or a third-party authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Authy.
• Access to the email address associated with your Battle.net account (for verification).
• Your phone’s camera or manual entry capability to scan/set up the QR code.

Step-by-Step

1. Log in to your Battle.net account – Go to the official Battle.net website and sign in with your email and password. If you have already set up any security features, you may need to verify with those first.
2. Navigate to Security Settings – Once logged in, click on your account name in the top-right corner, select “Account Settings,” then click on “Security” in the left-hand menu. This page shows your current security options.
3. Choose “Add a Mobile Authenticator” – Under the “Mobile Authenticator” section, click “Add” or “Set Up.” You’ll be asked to re-enter your password for confirmation.
4. Select your authenticator type – You have two main options:
   • Battle.net Mobile App: If you choose this, you’ll be prompted to install the app if you haven’t already. Open the app, log in with the same account, and follow the in-app prompts to link it.
   • Third-party authenticator (like Google Authenticator): If you prefer this, you’ll see a QR code and a manual entry key. Open your authenticator app, choose “Add account” or the plus icon, and scan the QR code or type in the key manually.
5. Enter the code from your authenticator – After linking, the authenticator will generate a 6-digit code that refreshes every 30 seconds. Enter this code into the Battle.net website field and click “Verify.”
6. Save your backup codes – Battle.net will show a list of one-time backup codes. Write these down and store them somewhere safe (e.g., a password manager or a physical note). These are your only way to access your account if you lose your phone.
7. Confirm the setup – After entering the code and saving backup codes, click “Done” or “Finish.” Your mobile authenticator is now active.
8. Test the login flow – Log out of your account and log back in. You should be prompted to enter a code from your authenticator. Enter it to confirm everything works.

Common Mistakes

• Not saving backup codes: Many users skip this step and later find themselves locked out when they get a new phone. Always save them.
• Using the same phone for multiple accounts without labeling: If you use a third-party authenticator for multiple services, make sure you name the Battle.net entry clearly (e.g., “Battle.net – MyAccount@email.com”), so you don’t enter the wrong code.
• Deleting the authenticator app before disabling the authenticator: If you uninstall the app without first removing the authenticator from your Battle.net account, you’ll be locked out and have to go through a lengthy recovery process.
• Entering the code after it expires: The code changes every 30 seconds. If you type it slowly, it might expire before you hit submit. Check the timestamp on the app.
• Sharing your backup codes with anyone: Treat them like your password. Never send them via email, chat, or social media.

Tips

• Enable SMS backup (if available): Some regions allow you to add a phone number as a secondary recovery method. This gives you another way to verify your identity if you lose the authenticator.
• Keep your authenticator app updated: Outdated apps can have bugs or security vulnerabilities. Turn on auto-updates.
• Use a password manager to store backup codes: This makes them accessible but encrypted. If you prefer a physical copy, keep it in a safe place, not stuck to your monitor.
• Set up a second authenticator on a spare device: Some users add the same Battle.net account to two phones (e.g., using Authy’s multi-device feature). This provides a backup without needing codes.
• Regularly review your security settings: Every few months, check the “Security” page to see which devices are linked and remove any you no longer use.

Troubleshooting

• Code not accepted: First, check that your phone’s time is set to automatic. Time drift is the most common cause. Go to your phone’s settings and ensure “Set automatically” is on. Then try again.
• Lost your phone or uninstalled the app: You’ll need to use a backup code. Go to the Battle.net login page, click “Can’t log in?” and choose “I lost my authenticator.” Enter one of your backup codes, then you can remove the old authenticator and add a new one.
• Didn’t save backup codes: If you’re locked out, you’ll need to contact Blizzard Support. They will ask for proof of identity, such as a government-issued ID or answers to security questions. This process can take several days.
• QR code won’t scan: Make sure your screen brightness is high and the code is fully visible. Alternatively, use the manual entry key (a long string of letters and numbers) and type it into your authenticator app.
• Authenticator app shows an error when adding: Some apps require you to enter an account name and key manually. Try that instead of scanning. Also, ensure you’re not accidentally copying a space or extra character.
• Still not working after trying everything: Clear your browser cache and cookies, or try a different browser. Sometimes stale sessions interfere with the setup flow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need the Battle.net mobile app, or can I use Google Authenticator?

Either works. The Battle.net app is convenient because it also lets you chat and manage games, but a third-party authenticator like Google Authenticator or Authy does the job just as well. The setup steps are nearly identical.

What if I lose my phone after setting up the authenticator?

Use one of your backup codes to log in. If you don’t have them, you’ll need to contact Blizzard Support and verify your identity, which can take time. That’s why saving backup codes is crucial.

Can I have the authenticator on more than one device?

Yes, but only if you use a third-party app like Authy that supports multi-device sync. The Battle.net app itself only links to one device at a time. If you want a backup, consider Authy.

Does the mobile authenticator work offline?

Yes. The code is generated locally on your phone using a time-based algorithm, so it works without an internet connection. You just need to enter the code on the Battle.net website, which requires internet.

Will I be asked for a code every time I log in?

Yes, on new devices or after a period of inactivity. On your trusted devices, you may be remembered for a while, but Battle.net will periodically ask for the code again for security.

Can I remove the authenticator later?

Yes. Log in, go to Security settings, and choose “Remove” next to the authenticator. You’ll need to enter a code from the current authenticator to confirm. Then you can add a new one or rely on other security measures.

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