How do I recover a forgotten Telegram password or PIN?
Applies to: Telegram Messenger (Android, iOS, Desktop, Web)
Last updated: September 2025
Problem
You enabled Two-Step Verification or a local app lock (PIN/passcode) on Telegram but can’t remember the password/PIN. Without it, you may be locked out of your account or app.
Solution
Recovery depends on whether you forgot your Two-Step Verification password (cloud login) or your local Telegram app lock PIN (device-only).
Step-by-step Instructions
Case 1: Forgot Two-Step Verification password
- Open Telegram and attempt to log in.
- When asked for your password, tap Forgot password?
- Telegram will send a reset link to your recovery email.
- Open the email and click the link.
- Set a new password.
⚠️ If you didn’t set a recovery email:
- You must wait 7 days before logging in without the password.
- After 7 days, you can log in with just the SMS code.
- Messages sent during this waiting period will be lost.
Case 2: Forgot local app lock PIN (passcode/fingerprint lock)
- Android & iPhone:
- If you forget your Telegram app lock PIN, you must delete and reinstall Telegram.
- Log in again with your phone number and SMS code.
- All cloud chats will sync back, but Secret Chats will be permanently lost.
Optional Methods or Tools
- Use a password manager to store your Telegram passwords and PINs securely.
- If your recovery email account is compromised, reset it before attempting a Telegram reset.
Best Practices / Tips
- Always add a recovery email when enabling Two-Step Verification.
- Write down or securely store your PIN/password in a trusted manager.
- Use biometrics (fingerprint/Face ID) with app lock to avoid forgetting numeric codes.
- Enable cloud backups/export if you rely on Secret Chats (they won’t sync after reinstall).
