Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 and Warzone 2.0’s SMS Protect Requirement Will Only Apply to PC Versions

It was recently reported that Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 will require players to link their accounts with their phone numbers (much like fellow Activision shooter Overwatch 2), with “some” pre-paid numbers also being incompatible. In light of the criticism that has followed, Activision has released a statement that explains the implementation of “SMS Protect”, while also clarifying that it will not be implemented on all platforms.

As per the publisher, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 and Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0‘s SMS Protect requirement isn’t in use in the console versions- though those playing the game on PC will need to verify their phone numbers. According to Activision, this is “critical” to its “anti-cheat enforcement efforts”.

The company also clarifies that existing Call of Duty: Warzone players who’ve already verified their accounts will not need to do so again for Modern Warfare 2 and Warzone 2.0. You can read the full statement below, courtesy of CharlieIntel on Twitter.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 launches on October 28, while Warzone 2.0 launches on November 16. Both games will be available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One, and PC.

As per recent reports, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2’s paid premium DLC in 2023 will include classic maps from older Call of Duty titles and new campaign content.

Activision has clarified that Modern Warfare 2 and Warzone 2’s SMS requirement is not the same of Overwatch 2.

Only PC players need a phone number attached in order to play. pic.twitter.com/Haxzu1aiYc

— CharlieIntel (@charlieINTEL) October 13, 2022