Guide on Resolving Telegram's Rejection of a Phone Number
Telegram, the popular messaging app, sends verification codes via SMS to confirm your phone number during signup. However, there are instances when these codes may fail to reach you. This article outlines common causes and troubleshooting steps to help you resolve any verification issues.
Network and SMS service issues
Telegram relies on SMS for verification. If your phone cannot receive SMS properly, verification will fail. Restarting your phone, switching internet connections (Wi-Fi to mobile data or vice versa), or checking your SMS functionality can help.
Incorrect phone number format
Ensure that the country code and number entered are correct to avoid verification failures.
Too many attempts
Repeated failed attempts within a short time frame can trigger temporary blocks (24-hour cooldown) on receiving verification codes. Waiting before retrying or clearing the app cache may resolve this.
VPNs, proxies, or suspicious IP addresses
Using VPNs or proxies can cause Telegram to block verification if the IP is flagged or comes from cloud/data center ranges often associated with bots. Disabling these or using trusted networks can fix the issue. If your IP address shows excessive logins or unusual location changes, Telegram may withhold sending codes.
Virtual phone numbers
Some virtual number providers are blocked by Telegram’s SMS system and may not receive verification codes. Using a reputable provider tested with Telegram is advised for these numbers.
Alternative verification methods
If SMS code does not arrive, Telegram offers a “Call me” option to receive the code via automated voice call.
If problems persist, trying the signup process from a different phone or network might help. Additionally, waiting 24 hours after multiple attempts can reset the block. Clearing the Telegram app's cache and data is also recommended as a troubleshooting step.
Completely uninstalling and reinstalling the Telegram app can give you a clean slate, ensuring no long-standing app issues on your device interfere with verification.
If your phone number is already registered on Telegram through another device, verification codes will be sent only to those existing devices by default.
If you have tried all other steps and are still not receiving the SMS, you can try requesting the code via call by opening Telegram, clicking on 'Have an activation code?' on the confirmation screen, and selecting 'Call' instead of SMS when prompted.
During periods of heavy server load or maintenance downtimes, Telegram may be slow or fail in sending out call and SMS verifications globally. In such cases, waiting 5-10 minutes and attempting phone number verification again in Telegram may help.
Check Telegram server status using Down Detector to see if there are any issues with Telegram's servers. In some countries, Telegram offers the option to request verification codes via automated call instead of SMS.
Consider using a different number if your current one has restrictions on receiving SMS messages. Some pre-paid SIM cards and mobile plans have restrictions on receiving SMS messages, which will prevent Telegram verification codes from being delivered.
Smartphone call management and spam protection apps can inadvertently interfere with legitimate verification codes and texts from services like Telegram during signup. Disabling such apps and rebooting your device may help the verification process complete successfully.
In case of weak cellular signal or limited data connectivity, the verification SMS code or call may not reach your device. If this is the case, consider using a different number or network.
- If you're struggling with receiving verification codes on your smartphone, it's possible that smartphone call management and spam protection apps could be interfering with the legitimate codes from services like Telegram. Disabling such apps and rebooting your device may help the verification process complete successfully.
- Some pre-paid SIM cards and mobile plans have restrictions on receiving SMS messages, which will prevent Telegram verification codes from being delivered. Consider using a different number if your current one has such restrictions.
