Big banks have already started using digital gadgets to help users protect their accounts, and now avid players will be able to employ similar technology to protect the integrity of their own gaming user accounts.

Yes, this week have lifted the lid on the Authenticator. The little machine will generate a unique six-digit PIN for users logging into the game. The code will only work once; is time-limited, and is linked solely to the account of the player purchasing it.

the Authenticator will be on-sale in Paris this weekend at the Blizzard Worldwide Invitational, costing 6.00 Euro. Europeans will also be able to buy the gizmo online soon.

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

Now. 3, anyone?

By Luke Guttridge