Blizzard unveils Authenticator for World of Warcraft

Blizzard has unveiled plans to start selling an Authenticator - a key fob which generates a limited time, six digit security code - to add another layer of security for World of Warcraft players.

The move comes in response to a number of users who have had their accounts compromised through keyloggers or hackers, and the Authenticator, which will require a new additional code to be entered each time the players logs on, should help to protect against a large number of those risks.

The Authenticator will be available for EUR 6 for the first time at the Worldwide Invitational, taking place this weekend in Paris, and will then be made available from the company's European websites for mail order for the same price plus shipping, or for USD 6.50 in North America plus shipping.

"It's important to us that World of Warcraft offers a safe and enjoyable game environment," said Mike Morhaime, Blizzard's CEO and co-founder. "One aspect of that is helping players avoid account compromise, so we're pleased to make this additional layer of security available to them."

Blizzard also seems set to announce a new title at the event, thought to be Diablo III, and will become part of the new Activision Blizzard company which will be finally formed on July 8.