---
description: >-
  When trying to send a private message to someone on Telegram, the following
  prompt appears: Sorry, you can only send messages to mutual contacts at the
  moment. This article will help to slove.
---

# Unable to send private messages.

Telegram private message restrictions generally fall into the following types. Please identify the restriction type first, then follow the corresponding instructions.

**Mutual Restriction**

**How to do:**

1. Send `/start` to @SpamBot.
2. Ignore the reply “You're free as a bird!” (This just means you're not globally banned; it doesn't reflect private chat restrictions.)
3. Tap **"But I can't message non-contacts!"**
4. Tap **"No, I’ll never do any of this!"**
5. Type and send **`accident`**.

Usually, the restriction is lifted within 24 hours. You can submit the request again if it hasn’t been removed after that.

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&#xNAN;_<mark style="color:green;background-color:green;">**Note:**</mark> <mark style="color:green;background-color:green;"></mark><mark style="color:green;background-color:green;">The bot won't notify you of the result — test it by trying to message someone directly.</mark>_

