Russia Bans Financial Firms from Using Telegram for Client Contact

As of June 1, Russian financial institutions are no longer allowed to communicate with clients via foreign messaging platforms like Telegram, following the enforcement of Federal Law No. 41-FZ. The legislation, aimed at curbing cybercrime, also applies to banks, telecom providers, and government agencies. Violations could now signal fraudulent activity, officials say.

In response, regulated forex brokers such as BCS Forex and Alfa-Forex have ended customer support through Telegram. BCS informed users it would continue support only by phone or email. Alfa-Forex will keep its Telegram channel open for public announcements but will stop direct communication.

The Bank of Russia confirmed it, too, would stop offering consultations or support via Telegram, though it will retain its public channel for updates.

The ban is part of broader anti-fraud efforts that include tighter rules on SMS authentication and future limits on ATM withdrawals if fraud is suspected. Authorities are also working on additional measures, including new penalties and expanded protections against digital scams.

The shift aligns with global trends. In China, according to Fazzaco's reports earlier, regulators are reportedly blocking access to MetaTrader platforms used in forex trading​, highlighting a growing crackdown on digital financial services across multiple jurisdictions.