In an ongoing effort to combat cheating, Activision will mandate that PC players of the forthcoming Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 enable Windows Secure Boot and employ a system equipped with Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 technology. This requirement is part of a broader strategy to enhance the integrity of gameplay and reduce the prevalence of cheating within the franchise.
Activision’s Ricochet anti-cheat team will initiate testing of these features in Season 5 of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Call of Duty: Warzone. However, compliance will not be enforced immediately. The company has indicated that players will begin receiving notifications in-game if their systems do not meet the necessary standards.
In a statement, Activision emphasized the importance of these hardware-level protections, underscoring that they will perform system checks at startup and on its servers to confirm the absence of tampering. While concerns have been raised about potential technical complications and privacy implications—especially following controversial implementations in other titles like League of Legends—Activision assures players that the checks are purely aimed at verifying system integrity without accessing personal data.
Moreover, the company claims that these security measures will not hinder game performance and will remain inactive during gameplay. Although two-factor authentication (2FA) is not currently a requirement, Activision has indicated it may be made mandatory in the future, reinforcing a culture of security among players.
In related news, Electronic Arts’ upcoming Battlefield 6 is also set to incorporate Secure Boot as part of its Javelin anti-cheat system, highlighting a trend within the gaming industry to adopt stricter measures against cheating. While this Secure Boot requirement will primarily affect Windows users, it may pose challenges for players on Linux or Steam Deck, who might seek alternative solutions.
This proactive stance by Activision reflects the industry’s growing commitment to ensuring a fair and enjoyable gaming experience for all players, fostering a community where skill rather than cheating defines success.