Table of contents
Telegram SMS verification code pricing
Why Telegram requires SMS verification codes
Ways to pay for SMS verification codes with a +86 phone number
Payment options for users in China
What are the alternatives to SMS verification codes?
Risks of using virtual numbers to receive verification codes
Tips for improving the security of your Telegram account
Improve your experience by choosing the right Telegram client
Telegram SMS verification code charges are an issue many users in China need to understand when registering for and using Telegram. According to Telegram's official pricing, each SMS verification code costs about 0.01 per message, a standard rate that applies worldwide. For Chinese users with a +86 phone number, how to pay this charge and whether alternatives are available are important practical questions.
Telegram SMS verification code charges
Telegram's SMS verification pricing system is based on international telecommunications standards. When a user first registers a Telegram account, the system sends an SMS containing a verification code to the phone number provided. Telegram covers the cost of sending this message, which is then settled through the user's account balance or another payment method.
According to information published by Telegram, SMS verification codes cost 0.01 per message. This price is relatively low, but it can add up for users who frequently switch devices or reverify their accounts. For Chinese +86 phone numbers, costs may sometimes fluctuate slightly because international carriers charge more, but they usually do not exceed 0.02.
Note that Telegram's SMS verification fees are charged separately from its Telegram Premium subscription service. Even users who do not subscribe to Telegram Premium must pay for SMS verification when registering for the first time. This fee is mandatory and cannot be completely avoided.
Why Telegram requires SMS verification
SMS verification is a standard identity authentication method in modern messaging apps. Telegram requires users to provide a real phone number and verify it by SMS when registering, mainly for the following important reasons.
First, verifying that users are genuine is the first line of defense against abuse and fraud. SMS verification lets Telegram confirm that registrants actually own the phone numbers, preventing others from registering accounts under someone else's identity. This is important for protecting users' privacy and security.
Second, SMS verification can effectively prevent large-scale registrations by bots and automated programs. Many malicious actors try to create large numbers of fake accounts with automated scripts to send spam or commit fraud. SMS verification raises the cost and difficulty of this behavior, creating an effective barrier.
In addition, SMS verification is an important basis for account recovery. If users forget their password or lose their device, they can use the phone number linked to the account to restore access more securely. This mechanism protects account security.
Finally, SMS verification complies with the laws and regulations of many countries and regions. More and more countries require messaging apps to verify users' identities for necessary oversight and traceability. Although Telegram is known for privacy because of its end-to-end encryption, basic identity verification is still necessary.
How to pay for SMS verification using a +86 phone number
For users in China with a +86 mobile number, there are relatively few ways to pay for Telegram verification text messages, but several viable options are still available. Each has advantages and disadvantages, so users should choose the option that best suits their circumstances.
The most direct payment method is an international credit or debit card. Many users in China have bank cards that support international payments and can add US dollars directly to their Telegram account to pay verification fees. In this case, users need to link their card details in the Telegram app, and the system will charge the card automatically.
Another option is to pay through a PayPal account. As an international online payment platform, PayPal supports transactions in multiple currencies. Users can first add funds to their PayPal account, then pay Telegram through PayPal. This is a good option for users without an international credit card.
In some regions, Telegram also supports direct billing through a mobile carrier account. China's three major carriers (China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom) have pricing plans for international text messages. Users can contact their local carrier to find out whether international SMS charges can be paid directly through their account.
A fourth option is to use a virtual US dollar wallet service. Many financial technology companies now offer virtual US dollar accounts. Users can add funds in renminbi to obtain a US dollar balance, then use it for international transactions. This option is relatively flexible, but may involve currency conversion fees.
One important reminder: regardless of the payment method, users should make sure they choose a legitimate, lawful channel. Avoid unofficial top-up services from third parties to reduce the risk of account theft or scams.
Payment Options for Users in China in Detail
For users in China, the most practical payment option should take into account several factors, including the renminbi-to-US-dollar exchange rate, payment convenience, and security.
Using Alipay's international remittance feature is a popular choice for users in China. Alipay users can use the "Transfer" feature to convert renminbi to US dollars and send the money to an overseas account. They can first transfer funds to their international bank or PayPal account, then use them to pay Telegram. Although this process is relatively complicated, it is safe and reliable.
WeChat Pay is mainly used for domestic transactions, but some merchants that support international payments accept it. Certain virtual US dollar account services let users add funds through WeChat Pay. Users can top up these wallet services directly through WeChat and then use the funds to pay Telegram.
Using international payment services from domestic banks is another option. Many large banks, such as Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and China Construction Bank, offer international transfers. Contact your bank for details about the process and fees, and transfer funds securely through its services.
Users with stronger technical skills may consider cryptocurrency exchange services. Some domestic exchanges support converting renminbi to USDT or other stablecoins. These crypto assets can be transferred quickly around the world and then converted back to US dollars for payment. However, this method is relatively complicated and requires some understanding of cryptocurrency.
What alternatives are there to SMS verification codes?
Although SMS verification codes are Telegram's standard verification method, users may look for alternatives or supplementary options in some situations.
Voice call verification is an official alternative offered by Telegram. If you can't receive an SMS verification code, select the "Call me instead" option on the Telegram login screen. The system will call your phone number and read the code aloud. This is especially useful for users in areas where SMS delivery is unreliable.
Virtual phone number services are another common alternative. Many third-party services offer temporary or permanent virtual numbers that users can use to receive verification codes. However, this method carries some risk because the numbers may have been used by someone else and could be linked to an already registered Telegram account.
Some users try to avoid paying verification fees again by using a previously registered Telegram account. If they have already verified an account, they can use it directly without repeating verification. This is especially useful when using Telegram on multiple devices.
Using an app that can receive verification codes is also an indirect alternative. Some third-party apps can intercept and display received SMS verification codes, helping users complete the verification process more conveniently. However, this method still requires receiving an SMS verification code first, so it does not truly avoid the fee.
Another option is to ask friends or family for help. If a friend already has a valid Telegram account, you could temporarily borrow it to avoid incurring a new verification fee. However, this poses account security risks and is not recommended for long-term use.
Risks of using virtual numbers to receive verification codes
Although virtual phone number services may seem like a convenient way to bypass payment, they actually carry several significant risks.
First, the authenticity and privacy of virtual numbers are difficult to guarantee. Many virtual number providers may record all SMS messages received through their platforms, including verification codes. This means that third parties could learn your Telegram verification code, putting your account at risk of being taken over.
Second, using a virtual number to register a Telegram account may violate Telegram's Terms of Service. Telegram explicitly states that users should provide a real phone number; using a fake or virtual number may result in a permanent account ban. If the account is banned, all of the user's previous chat history and data may be lost.
Third, a virtual number may have been used by someone else. If the previous registrant did not properly log out of the account, a new user may receive verification codes and security notifications related to the previous account. This can cause confusion and even account conflicts.
In addition, many virtual number services may pose security risks. Some providers may be phishing sites or distribute malware, and users may face identity theft when providing personal information. Even legitimate services may be hacked because of inadequate security protections, exposing users' information.
Finally, using a virtual number to receive verification codes may not cost less than paying Telegram directly. Many virtual number services also charge fees, which may be higher than Telegram's 0.01 dollars. This does not save money and instead adds security risks.
Recommendations for improving Telegram account security
Regardless of which verification method you use to pay for SMS verification codes, you should take steps to improve the security of your Telegram account.
First, linking a backup phone number is an important security measure. In Telegram settings, you can add a backup phone number. This lets you receive verification codes on the backup number if your primary number is unavailable, improving both account accessibility and security.
Second, enable the Two-Step Verification feature. It requires you to enter not only a verification code but also a password when signing in. Even if someone obtains your phone number, they cannot access your account without the password.
Third, regularly check the list of active devices on your account. Telegram lets you view all devices that are signed in. If you see an unfamiliar device, you should log it out immediately. You can find this feature under "Settings > Privacy and Security > Active Sessions".
Fourth, be careful about sharing your phone number. In Telegram, you can choose who can find you by your phone number. It is recommended that you set this to "Nobody" or "My Contacts Only" to prevent strangers from finding your account by searching for your number.
Fifth, avoid signing in to your Telegram account on untrusted devices. If you must use Telegram on a public computer, be sure to clear the browser cache and Telegram local data after signing out.
Sixth, regularly update the Telegram app and your device's operating system. Security patches often include fixes for known vulnerabilities, and timely updates can prevent hackers from exploiting them.
Choose the right Telegram client to improve your experience
Beyond resolving verification code payment issues, choosing the right Telegram client can also significantly improve your experience. The official Telegram app is feature-complete, but some third-party clients offer more customization options and enhanced features.
Turrit is a feature-rich third-party Telegram client that provides users with many useful enhancements. Turrit supports AI translation with 99% accuracy. Users can translate messages into other languages before sending them, or translate entire chats in real time. This is particularly useful for international communication.
For content discovery, Turrit offers improved Telegram keyword search, making it easier to find content in groups, channels, and bots. Turrit also supports keyword blocking and channel ad filtering to help users filter out unwanted information.
Turrit also excels at storage and acceleration. This client supports unlimited super cloud storage and upload and download speeds up to 20 times faster. These features can significantly improve efficiency for users who frequently share files and media.
For multi-account management, Turrit supports signing in to up to 10 Telegram accounts. This is especially convenient for users who manage multiple accounts, as they no longer need to switch between official apps frequently. Users can also pin 10 chats at once for quick access to frequently used conversations.
Privacy and security features are another highlight of Turrit . The client can check an account's privacy score and strengthen privacy protection with one-tap optimization. Users can filter messages from specific users in groups, which is especially useful in large groups.
Turrit also offers a channel feed, letting users scroll through the latest updates like browsing TikTok. The video feed has gesture controls: users can swipe up and down to adjust volume and brightness, and swipe left and right to control playback progress. This immersive viewing experience is uncommon in third-party clients.
For interface customization, Turrit lets users switch freely between side and bottom navigation bars to suit their preferences. Users can also change the app icon color, making