The Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 beta is set to launch on console and PC in just a few days, giving players the first opportunity to get their hands on the upcoming FPS. This also marks the first chance for hackers and cheaters to potentially wreak havoc on the game. Surprisingly, Activision not only anticipates this but actually encourages it. In a recent blog post on September 29, Activision and the anti-cheat team for Call of Duty detailed their efforts to combat cheaters and maintain fair gameplay in Black Ops 7.

One major change for PC players in this upcoming release is the requirement to have Secure Boot activated on their systems to access Black Ops 7 and its beta version. While this may not pose a problem for most users with newer PCs running Windows 11, those with older systems or rigs lacking Secure Boot support may encounter difficulties. Similar to the situation with Battlefield 6, which also mandated Secure Boot during its open beta, the goal is to enhance security and deter cheat tools. However, some players have voiced concerns about the inconvenience of enabling Secure Boot, especially for those unfamiliar with BIOS settings adjustments. Despite differing opinions on its effectiveness, Secure Boot remains a necessity for participating in the Black Ops 7 beta.

Cheaters attempting to bypass Secure Boot and exploit the game will face consequences, as Activision and Team Ricochet, the anti-cheat team, stand prepared to issue permanent bans. The team emphasized their vigilance during the beta period, promising swift action against cheaters to maintain a fair gaming environment. Any accounts banned for cheating in the beta will also be barred from all future Call of Duty titles, including popular titles like Modern Warfare. Furthermore, the anti-cheat measures implemented for Black Ops 7 will extend to Call of Duty: Warzone, the free-to-play battle royale game, ensuring a safer experience for all players. Despite the persistent threat of cheaters, the developers appear determined to combat any misconduct and safeguard the integrity of the gaming experience. The Black Ops 7 beta is scheduled to launch on all platforms on October 2 with early access, followed by public availability on October 5 until October 8.