In Russia, telecom operators have been instructed to restrict the transmission of SMS and voice calls with authorization codes from Telegram and WhatsApp messenger contractors. This has already complicated the registration of new users and login to existing accounts, according to "Durov's Code", citing sources in the telecom market.
According to the publication, it concerns the technical blocking of short messages and calls with confirmation codes that provide registration and login to messengers. Formally, the instruction is aimed at stopping the registration of new Russian users, but in practice it may also affect existing accounts.
Problems are already being recorded: Beeline users report that they do not receive SMS from Telegram when trying to register or change a number. At the same time, MTS and MegaFon subscribers continue to receive codes.
According to sources, Telegram is testing workarounds, in particular, the ability to send codes via email, calls from Russian numbers, or transfer the code to active sessions within the application itself.
Experts note that registration of new Telegram users in Russia may become impossible if the blocking affects all networks. Already registered users will be able to log into the system, but with restrictions - through alternative methods of identification.
Against the background of restrictions, Telegram has begun a phased implementation of a mechanism for sending SMS codes at the expense of users - that is, the user will be able to pay for the delivery of the code independently. The developers have not yet disclosed the details, but experts do not rule out that this function will become a temporary measure while the service is looking for technical ways to circumvent the restrictions.