If you’ve heard about HWID bans in Modern Warfare and wondered what they actually mean, this article covers it all—what triggers an HWID ban, how Modern Warfare blocks your entire PC (not just your Activision account), and what your options are if you ever get hit with one.
What Is an HWID Ban in Modern Warfare?
An HWID (Hardware ID) ban is Modern Warfare’s way of saying, “You’re not coming back on this device.” Instead of just banning your username or email, the game locks out your hardware—meaning your motherboard, SSD, graphics card, etc.
How It Works:- Modern Warfare scans your PC for unique hardware identifiers when you launch the game.
- It builds a “fingerprint” using things like your motherboard serial number and drive IDs.
- If your fingerprint matches one on their ban list, you’re blocked—even if you make new accounts or reinstall the game.
My Experience:
Every report I’ve seen (and my own testing) says HWID bans in Modern Warfare are real and extremely tough to dodge. Folks who try making new accounts get banned again if they haven’t swapped or spoofed hardware.
What Gets You HWID Banned in Modern Warfare?
- Cheating: Using hacks, aimbots, wallhacks, or other unauthorized tools.
- Breaking Activision’s Rules: Running any software that’s not approved, or modifying game files.
- Ban Evasion: Trying to sneak back in with new accounts after being banned.
- Multiple Accounts on One PC: Especially if your device has a ban history.
Note:
The Ricochet anti-cheat (or whatever version Modern Warfare is using) looks for patterns tied to hardware, not just suspicious logins.
How Does Modern Warfare Track Your Hardware?
Here’s what the game might check:
- Motherboard: Serial number or model code
- CPU: Processor ID
- GPU: Graphics card details
- SSD/HDD: Storage drive serials
- RAM: Sometimes included
All these parts have unique IDs, and Modern Warfare can flag any or all of them.

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Can You Get Around an HWID Ban in Modern Warfare?
Here’s the honest rundown:
It’s possible, but rarely simple—and always risky.
1. HWID Spoofers
Spoofers “fake” your hardware info to trick the game.
- Reality: Some work, many are scams or malware.
2. Replacing Hardware
You could swap out banned parts like your SSD, motherboard, or GPU.
- Reality: It can work, but it’s expensive and sometimes you need to replace more than one part. No guarantees.
3. VPNs
- Reality: VPNs just change your IP. For HWID bans, that’s pointless. Your hardware is what’s flagged.
Warning:
Sketchy spoofers and endless hardware swaps are often more trouble than they’re worth. People waste time and money chasing a fix.
How to Avoid HWID Bans in Modern Warfare
- Use only official mods or software.
- Don’t create multiple accounts on a banned PC.
- If you get a warning or shadowban, stop and wait it out.
- Keep your PC clean. Don’t let others use it to break the rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an HWID ban last in Modern Warfare?
- Most are permanent. Temporary bans are rare and not something you should expect.
How do I know if I’m HWID banned?
- If every new account you make gets banned super quickly, and you can’t play on the same PC but can on another, you’re almost certainly HWID banned.
Does Ricochet enforce HWID bans in Modern Warfare?
- Yes. Ricochet and other anti-cheat tools are designed to track and enforce HWID bans.
Can you just buy a new account to get around it?
- No. As long as your hardware is flagged, new accounts don’t help.
What hardware would I need to replace to get back in?
- Typically your motherboard and SSD/HDD, and sometimes your GPU or network card. But there’s no official list and it can change.
Final Thoughts
HWID bans in Modern Warfare are the nuclear option—they’re supposed to keep cheaters out for good. If you play legit, you’ll never need to stress about it. But if you do get banned, getting back in is usually more hassle than it’s worth.
Got more questions about Modern Warfare bans or safe gaming? Let me know—I’m happy to help you out!