Call of Duty cheat provider, Phantom Overlay, has announced its imminent shutdown. A Telegram statement revealed the closure will be immediate, with no explanation provided beyond a commitment to keep services online for an additional 32 days. This extension aims to ensure users with 30-day keys receive full value, and lifetime key holders will receive partial refunds. The closure's impact extends beyond Phantom Overlay, as many other cheat providers rely on its systems.

The news sparked mixed reactions online. Some gamers expressed excitement, speculating about the impact on Season 3 cheat updates. Others remain skeptical, suggesting a rebranding or continued operation under different names.

Activision acknowledged shortcomings in its Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 anti-cheat measures for Season 1, particularly in Ranked Play, despite earlier promises of swift action against cheaters. While admitting initial efforts "did not hit the mark," Activision assures players that increased Ricochet Anti-Cheat system activity leads to routine bans, alongside the recent removal of over 19,000 accounts. The persistent issue of cheating continues to impact competitive multiplayer, prompting Activision to allow console Ranked players to disable crossplay with PC players in Season 2. Despite significant investment in anti-cheat technology and legal action against cheat makers, skepticism about the Ricochet system remains. Separately, further details regarding the return of the popular Verdansk map in Call of Duty Warzone are expected on March 10.