Way to Overcome Mobile Data and Text Message Ban for A1 Users in Russia | News | About company

Way to Overcome Mobile Data and Text Message Ban for A1 Users in Russia

Private Customers / About Company / Business Customers

Starting from 6 October 2025, following a new regulatory direction, Russian telecom providers introduced a mandatory 24-hour ban on data transfer and text messages for all roaming users connecting to Russian mobile networks. The ban will be imposed upon the initial registration with a mobile network and remain in place for 24 hours, making voice calls unavailable. However, following negotiations with Russian carriers, A1 users will be given an opportunity to evade the ban.

 

Can I restore access to the services immediately upon arrival?

Yes. Right upon registration with a Russian mobile network, you will receive a text message with an instruction on how to unblock your SIM card and a link to perform verification using captcha.

 

How do I perform verification?

To perform verification, you need to enable data transfer for your SIM card with data roaming turned on and follow the instructions. Upon successful registration, data transfer and text messages will be restored within a couple of minutes.

 

What do I do if the services have not been restored?

Turn on and then off the Airplane mode to refresh the connection.

 

A1 also offers the "Internet in Russia" data package that allows A1 clients to stay in touch during their travels without damage to their wallet.

 

Update:

 

The verification option for A1 users from Belarus is already provided by MegaFon, Beeline and MTS. T2 is currently testing the option.