Some mobile games move progress with an account login. Others issue a backup ID, key or one-time transfer code. Those strings may look less important than a password, but anyone who has the right combination may be able to replace the save on another phone. Treat every transfer credential according to what the game’s official instructions say it can do.
First identify the type of credential
- Permanent backup ID and key: can remain usable until the developer changes or revokes it.
- One-time password: expires quickly and is intended for a single linking session.
- Account link: attaches progress to an identity provider such as a developer account, Apple, Google or another supported service.
- Support or player ID: usually identifies the profile but may not be enough to sign in.
Do not assume a player ID is secret or that a backup key is harmless. Read the official transfer page for the exact game before storing or sharing anything.
Two official examples show the difference
Pokémon Support says Pokémon Quest creates a player-chosen Backup ID and a generated Backup Key. They remain valid indefinitely and restore the state from the last backup. Deleting the app removes an unbacked-up local save, so both values must be created before a reinstall or phone change.
Shadowverse: Worlds Beyond offers account-link methods and a user-ID transfer route. For the latter, the player verifies an email address and generates a one-time password. Cygames says the email verification code and linking password remain valid for 30 minutes. A permanent key and a 30-minute code need different storage, but neither belongs in a public chat.
Create the credential on the original device
- Open the installed official game, not a link from a message.
- Confirm the correct player profile, username, region or server.
- Use the game’s Settings, Account, Backup or Data Link screen.
- Read overwrite, cooldown and platform restrictions before continuing.
- Record the credential without including unrelated notifications or payment data.
If the old phone is already lost or broken, do not invent a transfer process. Contact support through the verified store listing or developer site and explain which identifiers and receipts remain available.
Store it without exposing it
A password manager is appropriate for a reusable backup key. A protected offline record can also work. Avoid an unprotected screenshot that syncs to a shared photo library, a note visible on a family tablet or a message to yourself in a compromised social account.
For a one-time password, generate it only when the destination phone is ready. Enter it directly into the official app and let it expire after use. Do not share the code with a buyer, booster, trader or person claiming to be support.
Check the destination before confirming
Transfers can overwrite an existing local save. Confirm the destination app came from the official store, then compare the displayed username, rank or other non-secret profile details with the intended account. Cancel if the confirmation screen shows an unfamiliar profile.
Some games impose a transfer cooldown or stop the old device from using the same data. Some keep paid currency platform-specific. Read those warnings before deleting anything and keep the old installation until the new profile opens correctly, unless the official instructions say otherwise.
What legitimate support may request
Support may ask for a player or support ID, device model, operating-system version, game version, approximate creation date and a redacted receipt. It should not need your email password, store password, one-time sign-in code, wallet PIN, full card number or remote control of the phone.
If a transfer code has been exposed, stop using third-party help, secure the linked email or identity provider and contact official support. Create a replacement credential if the game offers that option. Keep a timeline of what was shared and when.
Official references
- Pokémon Support: Pokémon Quest backup and transfer
- Cygames: Shadowverse Worlds Beyond data link guide
- Pokémon Support: Pokémon TCG Pocket account linking
Editorial review: 22 September 2026. Transfer menus, supported identity providers and cooldowns can change; follow the current official guide for the exact game.