Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 Infinity Ward and Activision have confirmed that their SMS protection policy only applies to PC players, so PS5 and PS4 players can rest easy. This means all Modern Warfare 2 console players can play the game without having a phone number associated with their account, whether they’re on PS5, PS4 or Xbox.
Why isn’t Modern Warfare 2’s SMS protection policy on PS5 or PS4?
The SMS protection policy is intended to prevent players from having multiple Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 accounts for the purpose of trolling low-skilled opponents. The practice known as “smurfing” has been an issue in the Call of Duty PC community for some time, and in May 2020 Call of Duty: Warzone PC players were introduced to his SMS Protection. Activision has clarified PS5, PS4, and Xbox players are exempt from this policy, as a mobile phone number is required to play Modern Warfare 2 “on PC.”
New players who want to try out Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0 on PC will also be required to submit a text-enabled mobile number upon game release. Again, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One players will no longer need a phone number to play the game. Warzone players who have previously verified their account on PC also do not need to provide any additional information.
