Who will no longer be able to log in to WhatsApp* and Telegram from October 1, 2026

From October 1, 2026, millions of users of popular messengers may face a sudden inability to log in. Platforms are steadily tightening technical requirements and security policies. Here are 4 categories of people who are at maximum risk.

1. Owners of outdated gadgets

If your smartphone is running an older version of Android or iOS that the manufacturer has already taken out of support, the app will simply stop running. The system will require an upgrade that the “age” phone won’t physically pull. The only way out is to buy a new device.

2. Owners of "sleeping" SIM cards

If the number to which the account is linked has not been replenished and used for calls for a long time, the operator has the full right to block it or reissue it and sell it to another person. Restoring access to the messenger in such a situation will be almost impossible.

3. Spammers and rule breakers

Messengers are ruthlessly hunting for mass mailings of advertising, fraudulent links and prohibited content. If algorithms or user complaints register violations, the account will fly into the eternal ban without the right to appeal.

4. Those who ignore profile protection

Scammers have learned to intercept SMS or reissue SIM cards in your name through social engineering. If you don’t have two-step verification enabled (an additional cloud password), attackers can steal your profile in minutes.

*WhatsApp is owned by Meta, a company recognized as extremist and banned in Russia.

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