Boosting in CS2: can you get banned for it?
Boosting in CS2 is a way for players to reach a rank they don't deserve by using much stronger players who "carry" them through matches. It cuts both ways: both the boosted player and the booster are to blame. It is obviously unfair to the players on the enemy team, but the question remains: does Valve ban for boosting in CS2? Let's find out.
You can get a game ban for boosting in CS2
The answer is yes, you can be banned for boosting in CS2. Valve can issue game bans for this offence, which the developer describes as "permanent" and "non-negotiable". Don't believe us? Here is what Steam Support says about the reasons you can receive a game ban in Counter-Strike 2:
Using cheats.
Manipulating matchmaking rank by deliberately deranking or artificially boosting your skill group or Counter-Strike rating.
Using bots and/or automation tools.
Deliberately interfering with the normal operation of game servers or other players.
Boosting in CS2 falls under "manipulating matchmaking rank" and "artificially boosting your skill group or Counter-Strike rating". Because of this, taking part in boosting — whether you provide the service or use it — will eventually lead to a ban. It is obviously not the only offence you can be banned for in CS2, but it is a serious one.
It is very important to note that this does not automatically mean you can't play Premier with friends whose Elo (rating) is much lower than yours. Game bans are issued very rarely, and since they can't be reversed, Valve does everything it can to make sure they are justified. If you win a few matches with your low-Elo friends and they rank up as a result, that is not considered boosting in CS2 and won't get either of you banned. This is a huge and very important difference.
