Riot Games now requires SMS verification for competitive play in Valorant and League of Legends. This system combats smurfing, cheating, and account theft while securing your account for recovery and multi-factor authentication (MFA). However, only mobile or prepaid numbers from U.S. carriers are accepted – VoIP numbers like Google Voice are rejected. Each number can only link to one account, and if unlinked, it faces a six-month cooldown before reuse.
Key points:
- Why it matters: Ensures fair play, account security, and recovery.
- Requirements: U.S. carrier numbers only; VoIP and some smaller carriers aren’t supported.
- Common issues: Code delivery failures, formatting errors, and cooldown periods.
- Solutions: Services like MobileSMS.io provide real SIM numbers compatible with Riot’s system.
For seamless access to features like Clash in LoL or Premier in Valorant, completing SMS verification is essential. MobileSMS.io offers disposable or rental numbers for added privacy and reliability, ensuring you stay competitive without exposing personal details.
Riot’s SMS Verification Rules and Common Problems
What Riot Requires for SMS Verification
Riot has specific rules for SMS verification, accepting only real, carrier-based mobile or prepaid numbers from recognized U.S. carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Numbers from VoIP services such as Google Voice or Skype are not allowed.
"Non-VoIP phone numbers, also known as real SIM-card mobile phone numbers, are provided by legitimate mobile carriers and can be used for account verification on most online services."
- MobileSMS.io
One key rule is the one-number-per-account policy: a single phone number can only be linked to one Riot account at a time. If you try to verify a number already associated with another account, you’ll receive an error message.
Another important rule is the six-month cooldown period. If you remove a phone number from your Riot account, it cannot be used to verify another account for six months. However, you can always re-link the number to the original account during this waiting period.
These rules highlight the importance of understanding how SMS verification operates within Riot’s system.
Where SMS Verification is Used in Riot Games
SMS verification plays a crucial role across various Riot games and features. Competitive modes are the most common reason players encounter this requirement. For example, League of Legends players need verified phone numbers to join Clash tournaments, while Valorant players must verify their numbers to access Premier mode for team play.
Another major use is account recovery. If you forget your password or suspect a security breach, a verified phone number simplifies the recovery process. Riot uses this number to send recovery codes and confirm your identity.
SMS verification also boosts account security by enabling multi-factor authentication. This extra layer of protection makes it much harder for anyone else to gain unauthorized access to your account.
For players interested in organized team play, phone verification ensures smooth team management by maintaining roster integrity and reducing duplicate accounts.
Common SMS Verification Problems
Riot’s strict verification guidelines can lead to several common issues during the process.
One frequent problem is VoIP number rejection. Many users try to verify their accounts using VoIP services like Google Voice, only to find these numbers are not accepted.
"VoIP phone numbers are provided by companies such as Twilio, Ring Central, Vonage, Nextiva, Grasshopper, Dialpad, and many others. These numbers are not accepted by many online services as they are often used for account verification and typically cannot receive SMS verification codes."
- MobileSMS.io
Another issue is code delivery delays or failures. Even when the correct number is entered, verification codes might not arrive due to carrier issues, network congestion, or typos in the phone number.
Formatting errors are also a common stumbling block. U.S. players must use the +1 country code and ensure their 10-digit number is entered correctly. Mistakes like forgetting the area code or adding extra digits will prevent the code from being sent.
The six-month cooldown period can surprise players who try to reuse a number too soon after removing it from another account, leaving them with no choice but to wait or use a different number.
Lastly, unsupported carriers can cause trouble. While major U.S. carriers work well, smaller regional carriers or certain prepaid services may not be compatible with Riot’s SMS system. If verification codes consistently fail to arrive, your carrier might not be supported.
| Problem Type | Cause | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| VoIP Rejection | Using VoIP services | Complete verification failure |
| Code Delivery Issues | Typos, carrier problems, network delays | Cannot complete verification process |
| Six-Month Cooldown | Number recently used on another account | Must wait or use a different number |
| Formatting Errors | Incorrect country code or number format | Code never sent to phone |
Step-by-Step Guide: Setting Up SMS Verification with MobileSMS.io
How to Set Up SMS Verification in Riot Games
Finding the SMS verification option in Riot’s games is simple once you know where to look. In League of Legends, go to the Clash tab and click on "Team." Next to your name, you’ll see a "Confirm SMS" button – this is where you start the verification process.
For Valorant players, the steps are slightly different. Navigate to the Premier Tab and locate the verification panel. Click "Verify Now" to begin adding your phone number for competitive play.
When entering your phone number, be sure to follow the correct format. U.S. players should use the +1 country code, followed by the area code and seven-digit number. The format should look like this: +1 [area code] [number].
After entering your number, Riot will send a verification code via SMS. You’ll need to enter this code within a few minutes before it expires. If you don’t receive the code within two to three minutes, double-check your number for errors and try again.
Now, let’s see how MobileSMS.io can make this process even easier with real SIM numbers.
Using MobileSMS.io’s Real SIM Numbers for Riot Verification
MobileSMS.io offers real SIM-card numbers from U.S. carriers, ensuring they meet Riot’s strict verification standards. Unlike VoIP services, which are often rejected, these numbers are sourced from actual mobile carriers and are fully compatible with Riot’s system. This makes them a reliable choice for uninterrupted access to competitive play.
"Non-VoIP phone numbers, also known as real SIM-card mobile phone numbers, are provided by legitimate mobile carriers and can be used for account verification on most online services."
- MobileSMS.io
MobileSMS.io gives you two options for Riot verification. Disposable numbers range from $3.50 to $5.50 for single-use verification, while long-term rental numbers are available from $15 for 7 days up to $100 for 90 days. Disposable numbers remain active for about 10 minutes, while rental numbers allow unlimited SMS reception during the rental period.
Here’s how to set it up:
- Sign up and add credits: Create an account on MobileSMS.io and add at least $5 to your balance. Credits are valid for 12 months.
- Choose your options: Select United States as your country and pick "Riot Games" from the list of services. You can also choose specific games like "League of Legends Clash" if available.
- Request your number: After selecting your options, copy the provided number exactly as shown, including the +1 country code, and paste it into Riot’s verification field.
- Enter the code: When Riot sends a verification code, it will appear in real time on your MobileSMS.io dashboard. Copy the code and enter it into Riot’s prompt to complete the verification.
Fixing SMS Errors
If you run into issues after setting up your verification, here’s what to do.
- No code received: Double-check your phone number for typos, wait up to 5 minutes, and request a new code if necessary.
- Code rejection: This happens when you try to use an expired code. Riot’s codes typically expire within five to ten minutes. Request a new code and enter it as soon as you receive it.
- Carrier compatibility issues: Occasionally, even real SIM numbers may face compatibility problems. If a MobileSMS.io number doesn’t work, contact their support team. They guarantee their numbers will work and offer refunds if they don’t.
Sometimes, regional carrier restrictions can block SMS delivery. If this happens, request a number from a different U.S. carrier through MobileSMS.io. The service provides numbers from major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, so switching carriers often resolves the issue.
Lastly, keep in mind that each phone number can only be linked to one Riot account at a time. If a number is already associated with another account, you’ll need to either unlink it from the existing account or use a different number for verification.
Getting Competitive Queue Access and Account Recovery
Requirements for Competitive Queues in Riot Games
To participate in competitive modes in Riot Games, players must meet specific criteria, including SMS verification and maintaining certain account standards. For League of Legends Clash, your account needs to be at Honor Level 2 on your highest-ranked account. Riot evaluates all associated accounts to ensure compliance. If your top-ranked account doesn’t meet the Honor requirement, you won’t be eligible – even if another account has SMS verification. Failing to meet these standards can result in losing rewards or even being banned from tournaments. These measures are designed to protect the integrity of competitive play while also simplifying account recovery.
In Valorant’s Premier mode, eligibility revolves around two key factors: SMS verification and overall account standing. Every team member must have a verified phone number and a clean account status to participate in organized competitive matches.
How SMS Verification Protects Your Account
SMS verification plays a dual role in ensuring competitive eligibility and safeguarding your Riot account. By enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA), you add an extra layer of security. Whenever you log in, a six-digit code is sent to you via the Riot Mobile app or your linked email. Even if someone gets hold of your password, they can’t access your account without the verified phone number or email.
When it comes to account recovery, having a verified phone number is invaluable. It provides Riot with a reliable way to confirm your identity if your account is ever compromised or locked. Services like MobileSMS.io offer long-term rental options for phone numbers, ranging from $15 for a 7-day rental to $100 for 90 days, ensuring uninterrupted access to recovery codes during the rental period.
What Happens When You Change or Remove a Verified Number
Keeping a verified phone number linked to your Riot account is crucial for maintaining access to competitive modes and securing your account. If you unlink your number, it enters a six-month waiting period before it can be linked to another account. However, you can re-link it to the same account at any time.
To avoid disruptions, make sure your phone number is connected to the correct account before completing the verification process. During the six-month waiting period, your account loses its SMS verification status, which means you won’t be able to join competitive queues unless you verify with a different number.
If you need immediate access to competitive modes, services like MobileSMS.io offer disposable numbers that can help you bypass these waiting periods while keeping your account eligible for play.
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Privacy, Security, and Cost Analysis with MobileSMS.io
Privacy and Security Benefits of MobileSMS.io
For competitive gamers, protecting personal information is just as important as ensuring secure account access. Using your personal phone number for Riot Games verification can expose you to unnecessary risks. Linking your real number to gaming accounts connects your identity to those accounts. If there’s a data breach or your account gets compromised, your phone number could be targeted for spam calls, phishing attempts, or other unwanted intrusions.
MobileSMS.io offers a simple way to shield your personal information. By using disposable numbers, you can meet Riot’s verification requirements without putting your real number at risk. This means no more worries about marketing calls or texts that often follow when personal data is shared.
"MobileSMS.io ensures your privacy by allowing you to use our disposable numbers instead of your personal number. This way, you never have to share your personal information with any website or app."
– MobileSMS.io
Beyond privacy, MobileSMS.io enhances security. Their real SIM numbers are far more difficult to spoof compared to VoIP alternatives, making your Riot account less vulnerable to unauthorized access. These numbers, sourced from legitimate mobile carriers, provide the same reliability and security as traditional phone numbers while keeping your personal details confidential.
Real SIM vs. VoIP Numbers for Riot Verification
Choosing the right type of number for Riot Games verification can make or break your gaming experience. Riot Games actively blocks VoIP numbers due to their association with fraudulent accounts, so understanding the advantages of real SIM numbers is key.
| Feature | Real SIM Numbers (MobileSMS.io) | VoIP Numbers |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 99.9% | Very low (often rejected) |
| Reliability | High | Low |
| Privacy Protection | Strong (anonymous, no personal info exposed) | Weak (may expose personal info) |
| Security Level | High (harder to spoof) | Low (easy to spoof) |
| SMS Delivery | Instant and guaranteed | Frequently fails or delayed |
Real SIM numbers from MobileSMS.io bypass the limitations of VoIP numbers entirely. Since they’re sourced from reputable mobile carriers, Riot’s systems recognize them as valid, traditional phone numbers. This ensures seamless SMS delivery, successful verification, and long-term account stability – key factors for competitive gamers.
MobileSMS.io Pricing Breakdown
MobileSMS.io offers flexible pricing to suit different gaming needs, whether you’re setting up a single Riot account or managing multiple profiles. The service uses a credit-based system with a $5 minimum deposit, and credits remain valid for 12 months.
- One-time verification: Disposable numbers start at $3.50, perfect for initial account setups. Prices for specific platforms range between $4.50 and $5.50, depending on demand and restrictions.
- Long-term rentals: Ideal for ongoing access, a 7-day rental costs $15.00, while a 30-day rental is $30.00. For uninterrupted access, a 90-day rental is available for $100.00.
- Premium All Services plan: Priced at $100.00 per month, this plan includes automatic SMS forwarding and support for multiple accounts, making it a great option for content creators or pro players managing several accounts.
Considering the potential costs of losing access to a high-value Riot account – like lost progress, rare skins, or competitive eligibility – MobileSMS.io’s pricing is a smart investment in account security. Plus, their 7-day money-back guarantee and pay-per-success model (you’re only charged for received verification codes) make this a risk-free solution for competitive gaming.
Conclusion: Getting a Clean Setup with MobileSMS.io
Setting up SMS verification for Riot Games doesn’t have to be a headache. MobileSMS.io provides exactly what gamers need: real SIM-based numbers that work reliably, protect your privacy, and grant easy access to competitive queues in games like Valorant and League of Legends.
With a 99.7% acceptance rate and instant SMS delivery, MobileSMS.io takes the stress out of the verification process, avoiding the common pitfalls of VoIP services. This means your gaming progress and personal information stay secure without breaking the bank. Plus, their strong privacy features ensure your account remains protected.
FAQs
Why does Riot Games require U.S.-based phone numbers for SMS verification, and how does this affect international players?
Riot Games mandates SMS verification using phone numbers from U.S.-based carriers to maintain fair play in competitive queues and strengthen account security. This measure blocks the use of VoIP or disposable numbers, which are often exploited to create multiple accounts or sidestep bans.
For players outside the U.S., this can be tricky since many international numbers might not be accepted. A practical solution is using a real SIM-based phone number from a reliable service. This allows players to meet Riot’s verification standards securely while keeping their privacy intact, ensuring they can enjoy competitive matches without any issues.
What is the six-month cooldown period for switching phone numbers on Riot accounts, and what should I know before unlinking my number?
Riot Games has a policy in place that requires a six-month waiting period before a phone number can be transferred from one account to another. This measure is designed to enhance account security and prevent any potential misuse. In practical terms, once a phone number is tied to a Riot account, it remains exclusive to that account for six months.
If you’re thinking about unlinking your phone number, take a moment to assess whether you’ll need it for things like account recovery or accessing competitive queues. Removing your number without having a verified replacement can temporarily limit your access to some features. To avoid any issues, make sure to use a valid, non-VoIP number for verification purposes.
Why should I use MobileSMS.io’s real SIM numbers for Riot verification instead of my personal phone number?
Using MobileSMS.io’s real SIM numbers for Riot verification is a smart way to safeguard your privacy. Instead of using your personal phone number, you can opt for a disposable number to keep your private information secure and avoid sharing it with third-party platforms.
This method not only protects your identity but also minimizes the chances of receiving spam or unwanted messages. It’s a straightforward and secure solution for verifying your Riot account without exposing your personal details.