Overwatch 2 Friend Request Prohibited Guide

Have you ever tried adding a friend on Overwatch 2, only to see the dreaded 'Overwatch 2 friend request prohibited' message? If so, you're definitely not alone. As of 2025, this issue has been popping up more frequently, frustrating players who just want to squad up. What could be causing this, and is there any reliable fix?

Common Reasons for Friend Request Restrictions

Many users report receiving error codes like 5001, or messages stating they're prohibited from sending friend requests. Typically, these problems stem from:

• Account restrictions due to suspicious activity or prior bans

• Technical bugs within Battle.net or Overwatch 2

• Privacy settings blocking requests

• Unresolved game updates or launcher issues

Interestingly, even if neither party has blocked the other, the issue can persist—suggesting a deeper technical bug or an oversight in Blizzard's systems. Some players have even tried all the official troubleshooting steps, including repairing their game installation and adjusting settings, with no success.

How to Troubleshoot the Problem

Wondering if there's a fix? Start by systematically checking these steps:

1. Verify both accounts have no blocks or restrictions set up.

2. Repair the game via the Battle.net launcher to ensure files aren't corrupted.

3. Double-check Blizzard's privacy and security suggestions on their official website.

4. Try adding friends from both PC and mobile platforms—sometimes one may work when another doesn't.

5. If all else fails, reach out to Blizzard support and provide error codes like 5001 for assistance.

Cheating, Bans, and Friend Restrictions

Could cheating be the culprit? Overwatch 2 has ramped up its anti-cheat measures, and accounts associated with cheating or boosting can face restrictions—including prohibitions on friend requests. But does this punishment extend to friends or groupmates? Players have questioned whether those who collude with cheaters also get penalized, but Blizzard's responses remain vague. What we do know: repeated suspicious activities in your playgroup can trigger automated account actions, which might include friend request blocks.

What Players Are Saying

On social media platforms like TikTok, thousands have searched for fixes, sharing both frustration and tips. Some mention that waiting a few days can resolve temporary restrictions; others recommend reinstalling the Battle.net client. The issue seems persistent enough that Blizzard may need to offer a more permanent solution soon.

Quick Reference Table

Final Thoughts

Is there a guaranteed fix for the 'Overwatch 2 friend request prohibited' error? Not yet, but following these steps can help most players. If you've tried everything and still can't connect, reaching out directly to Blizzard is your best bet. After all, isn't gaming about playing together—not just fighting bugs?