Riot Games is making strides in addressing the issue of smurfs in VALORANT, with the upcoming Patch 11.08 set to introduce a new in-game feature that enables players to report this disruptive conduct.

Scheduled for release on October 15, Patch 11.08 will incorporate a «Rank Manipulation» option within the reporting system in VALORANT. This update allows for specific reports on smurfing, a significant improvement over the previous system where players had to categorize smurfs under «Cheating» or «Sabotaging» and leave an explanation. This often resulted in ineffective investigations on Riot’s part.

The introduction of the rank manipulation reporting category is just the beginning of a broader effort to combat the prevalent issue of smurfing in VALORANT. Last month, Riot acknowledged the widespread nature of the problem and expressed intentions to implement a range of anti-smurf measures aimed at addressing rank manipulation and account boosting.

«Facing smurfs can be incredibly frustrating in VALORANT, and much of this disruption stems from shared accounts,» the team clarified in a September article on X. «By limiting the number of accounts that can be shared, we anticipate a reduction in smurfing.»

Once Patch 11.08 is active alongside Act Six on October 15, players will be able to report suspected smurfers, win traders, or boosters under the rank manipulation category. To submit a report for rank manipulation or any other issue, follow these instructions:

1. Access the in-game settings menu (press ESC on PC) while in a match.
2. In the Match tab, locate the player you wish to report and click the Report button.
3. Select the appropriate category for your report and provide a brief explanation of why you believe they belong to that category.
4. Complete the report submission.

Riot will actively review reported behaviors and take necessary actions against offending players.

Beginning with Patch 11.09, Riot will implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) through the Riot Mobile App for accounts identified as shared. Players can find additional details about the forthcoming MFA changes on a banner in the Competitive lobby. For further insights into the upcoming anti-smurf updates in VALORANT, refer to our comprehensive guide.