How do I recover a forgotten Telegram password or PIN?

Applies to: Telegram Messenger (Android, iOS, Desktop, Web)
Last updated: September 2025

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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.

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Solution

Recovery depends on whether you forgot your Two-Step Verification password (cloud login) or your local Telegram app lock PIN (device-only).

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Step-by-step Instructions

Case 1: Forgot Two-Step Verification password

1. Open Telegram and attempt to log in.
2. When asked for your password, tap Forgot password?
3. Telegram will send a reset link to your recovery email.
4. Open the email and click the link.
5. 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.

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Case 2: Forgot local app lock PIN (passcode/fingerprint lock)

• Android & iPhone:
  1. If you forget your Telegram app lock PIN, you must delete and reinstall Telegram.
  2. Log in again with your phone number and SMS code.
  3. All cloud chats will sync back, but Secret Chats will be permanently lost.

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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.

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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).