Tech Desk 
Dec 27, 2024
Telegram is a flexible messaging app packed with features like large group chats, cloud storage, and customisable options. Its true strength, however, lies in its privacy tools, such as secret chats and self-destructing media, designed to keep your conversations private and secure.
If you want to keep your conversations private, Gadinsider has compiled five easy tips to use Telegram safely and securely.
Use secret chats
By default, Telegram chats are not end-to-end encrypted. To secure your messages, start a secret chat. This ensures your chats stay private but cannot be moved between devices.
How to enable secret chats:
- Open Telegram and select a contact.
- Tap the contact’s profile picture.
- Tap the three-dot icon and select "Start Secret Chat."
Enable two-step verification
Two-step verification adds a layer of security to your Telegram account by requiring a password and a code sent via SMS when logging in.
How to enable it:
- Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Two-Step Verification.
- Set up a password.
End active sessions
If you use multiple devices, disable sessions on devices you no longer use to keep your chats private.
How to manage sessions:
- Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Devices.
- Tap "Terminate All Other Sessions."
Send self-destructing media
For added privacy, send media that deletes itself after a set time.
How to send:
Select or take a photo, tap the stopwatch icon, set the time, and send.
Delete messages
You can delete messages for both you and the recipient. This is helpful if you lose a device.
How to delete:
Long press a message, tap Delete, and check "Also delete for."
Using these tips ensures safer, more private conversations on Telegram. Stay secure and enjoy a worry-free messaging experience!
