Russia Blocks WhatsApp and Telegram Registrations — Here’s What’s Behind It

Russia has reportedly begun restricting new user registrations on Telegram and WhatsApp by cutting off a verification method that millions rely on to access the world’s most popular messaging apps.

According to reports, Russian mobile operators have blocked SMS and voice-call verification codes needed to register new accounts on these platforms.

This effectively prevents new users from signing up and, in some cases, makes it hard for existing users to reverify their accounts after changing their number or reinstalling the app.

Filtering verification traffic

The move reportedly targets verification messages sent by Telegram and WhatsApp during account setup — a technical bottleneck that essentially blocks new registrations without imposing a full ban.

Reports indicate that major operators such as Beeline, MTS, and MegaFon have received instructions to filter verification traffic from foreign gateways, cutting off the short codes used to confirm accounts.

Telegram and WhatsApp, as well as other end-to-end encrypted messaging services, have faced scrutiny from regulators for refusing to hand authorities the keys to decrypt users’ chats under domestic surveillance laws.

Telegram, founded by Pavel Durov, a Russian entrepreneur now based abroad, has often resisted state pressure. WhatsApp, owned by Meta, has likewise been under fire for alleged noncompliance with moderation requirements.

Key takeaways

Although this may pass as a technical issue, it highlights how governments can leverage telecom infrastructure to subtly influence or restrict access to global digital services.

Blocking SMS verification can be viewed as an effective way to encourage migration to domestic alternatives.

In any case, for Russian users, this means new accounts can’t be verified via local numbers, and users changing devices or SIM cards may risk permanent lockout.

Whether you live in Russia or elsewhere, always remember to:

• Use two-factor authentication (2FA) through an authenticator app, biometrics, or hardware key, not just SMS.
• Keep recovery methods (email, backup codes, trusted devices) handy and up to date.
• Watch for phishing attempts that exploit disruptions to verification.

You may also want to read:

Why Use an Authenticator App Instead of SMS?

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