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Providing a German SIM card or eSIM registered in one's name for a relative residing in Russia (e.g., for receiving SMS codes for LinkedIn) carries significant risks. Any actions performed using that SIM card, including illicit activities (e.g., cyber threats, illegal downloads) or registration of other accounts, will be legally attributed to the registered owner in Germany. This could potentially impact the owner's reputation, financial standing (e.g., Schufa score), or lead to legal complications. While tracking the geographic disparity between the physical SIM and eSIM usage is possible, the primary risk lies in the misuse of the identity. An alternative for the relative could be to acquire an eSIM from a country without Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements, though such eSIMs might lack standard phone numbers or SMS reception features.

If a deceased relative's German SIM card is still active and incurring charges, investigate options with the mobile operator. In some cases, it might be possible to transfer ownership or close the account. Using the SIM card in Russia may depend on the operator's policies and network compatibility.

For communication upon arrival in Germany, options include ensuring your existing SIM card has international roaming enabled, purchasing a local German SIM card upon arrival, using Wi-Fi hotspots at the airport, or utilizing international roaming plans from your home provider. Regarding SIM card ownership transfer after the original holder's death, this process typically requires legal documentation and direct contact with the mobile operator to understand their specific policies.

When in Germany/EU, accessing Russian email services (e.g., mail.ru) from a foreign IP address may require SMS verification. Russian SIM cards with roaming enabled (or even with only cellular service enabled, no data) can receive SMS and calls. Incoming calls might be charged based on the tariff, but SMS and verification codes typically arrive free of charge. To prevent a Russian SIM card from being blocked due to 90 days of inactivity while abroad, some operators (e.g., MegaFon) offer a service to retain the number's activity for a small monthly fee. Disabling mobile data does not prevent the reception of SMS or calls, as they operate via the cellular network.

To access Russian state services requiring SMS confirmation while abroad, if a Russian SIM card is unavailable, it's possible to use a friend's dual-SIM phone. The friend can receive SMS messages and forward them in real-time. This method allows users to receive necessary verification codes when outside of Russia.

Some visa centers (e.g., in Kazakhstan) may provide free SIM cards for use in Germany, often from Lebara. These typically offer free service for approximately 4 weeks after activation. However, the specific terms after the initial free period may not be readily apparent, and such promotional offers might not be listed on the operator's public website. Users should be prepared to manage or change their tariff after the initial free period.

For unlimited mobile internet in Germany: 1. **O2**: Offers unlimited data plans starting around €20-€25 per month for new customers, typically with a capped speed of 15 Mbit/s. These are often 2-year contracts. 2. **Telekom**: Generally considered the best provider for network quality and speed. 3. **Vodafone**: Another good option, often ranked after Telekom.

For Russian citizens in Germany needing a Russian SIM card for banking purposes (e.g., Sberbank): If your current Russian SIM is deactivated, consider SberMobile's eSIM or physical SIM card options, which can potentially be ordered and shipped. The identification process might require a Russian phone number. If direct international SIM delivery is not offered by the bank, explore alternative methods or contact the bank for specific guidance.

Sberbank mobile applications may function in Germany with limitations. Using a VPN is recommended for better connectivity. While bill payments are possible, functionality varies by merchant. Some users report successful usage without a VPN via mobile data or home Wi-Fi.

Users in Germany are experiencing issues accessing Russian websites (e.g., Yandex, Dzen, VK) via their home Wi-Fi networks. Access is functional via mobile internet. There are unconfirmed reports suggesting a potential link to an incident at a large data center near Frankfurt. The duration and resolution of this issue are currently unknown.

For accessing Russian applications from Germany, users have recommended VPN services such as "instvpn" and "dspvpn_bot" (found on Telegram). Some services offer free trials (e.g., 5 days for instvpn) and competitive pricing (e.g., 100 RUB/month for instvpn when paying annually).

To find local Telegram chats for specific cities in Germany, users should check the pinned messages or 'za_krepe' section of relevant larger community chats. Alternatively, using Telegram's search function with city names or common community keywords (e.g., 'Berlin Russians', 'Germans in [city name]') can yield results.

For Pixel 7a users experiencing intermittent cellular network connectivity despite correct APN settings, applying the latest Android system update can resolve baseband or modem software bugs. Always prioritize OS updates as a primary troubleshooting step.

Provide resources for free German language learning. Recommend the Goethe-Institut website for official free materials. Suggest the series 'Nicos Weg' for beginners (A1 level). Mention children's YouTube channels for vocabulary acquisition. List language learning apps such as Duolingo and Babbel. Advise on finding age-appropriate books for learners.