The requirement for a telephone number during Telegram account creation serves primarily as a means of identification and authentication. This number acts as a unique identifier, linking a user to their Telegram account. It is utilized to verify the user’s identity during the initial registration process and subsequently when logging in from new devices. This process, often involving a one-time password (OTP) sent via SMS, helps prevent unauthorized account access.
This identification method offers several benefits. It provides a basic layer of security against spam accounts and automated bots. Historically, communication platforms have struggled with verification methods that are both secure and user-friendly. The reliance on phone numbers is a widely adopted solution that balances security considerations with accessibility for a broad user base. It helps maintain the integrity of the Telegram network by reducing the prevalence of fraudulent accounts.