Blizzard to Intro Hardware WoW Authenticator

It's clear that games are big business, and from the sheer number of password-stealing trojans trolling for your WoW info, it's also a big attraction for malware.  Blizzard intends to make it more difficult for anyone to log into your account, even if they have your password.

"An added security feature for those worried about account theft, Blizzard is introducing an Authenticator at this weekend's Worldwide Invitational (WWI) in Paris. The Authenticator is a piece of hardware (we're guessing USB-related) has a button you press whenever you start World of Warcraft that must be inputted to log in. "

What is the Blizzard Authenticator?

 
WoW Burning Crusade
Source:  Bizzard Entertaiment

The Blizzard Authenticator is an optional tool that offers World of Warcraft players an additional layer of security to help prevent unauthorized account access. The Authenticator itself is a physical “token” device that fits easily on a keyring.  Here's a snip from the Blizzard Authenticator FAQ...

Where do I get a Blizzard Authenticator?

The Blizzard Authenticator will be able to be purchased directly from the Blizzard Store for $6.50 *Coming Soon*.

How does the Blizzard Authenticator work?

You must first associate the Blizzard Authenticator to the World of Warcraft account you play.  Once the account has been linked, the Authenticator token will be required to log in to Account Management or to the game; when logging in, you will be prompted to supply a digital code generated by the Authenticator.

How do I associate a Blizzard Authenticator with an account?

You can associate your Blizzard Authenticator to the World of Warcraft account you play by logging into Account Management. Click the “Add Blizzard Authenticator” button and then enter the serial number on the back of your Blizzard Authenticator.

What is a digital code and where do I see it?

The digital code is a six-digit numeric code that is produced when you press the button on the front of your Blizzard Authenticator. Each code is unique and is valid only once.

Where do I enter the digital code when I log in to World of Warcraft or to Account Management?

After you enter the account name and password, you’ll be prompted to provide the digital code from your Blizzard Authenticator. You must press the button on your Authenticator and enter the code it displays to complete your login.

Can I apply my Blizzard Authenticator to more than one account?

Yes! You’re welcome to associate a single Blizzard Authenticator to as many accounts as you like. Please remember that you must have that Authenticator with you to log in to any of these accounts afterwards.

Can I have two Blizzard Authenticator associated to my account to have one at work and another at home?

No, only one authenticator can be attached to an account at a time you would need to carry it with you to log in from different computers.


Keyloggers, beware.  A hardware dongle isn't something you can bypass, at least for now.  Maybe we'll see follow-on products as well.