Many say Telegram is the most secure messaging app, with some even calling it a "privacy haven." But is this really true?
In fact, even though founder Pavel Durov repeatedly emphasizes that Telegram uses end-to-end encryption, if you carefully examine its feature settings, you'll still find some easily overlooked privacy vulnerabilities. These issues can not only expose your real identity but also allow strangers to easily access your location, photos, and even chat history.
This article will take you on a deep dive into 5 privacy and security issues present in Telegram, along with practical prevention tips.
One of Telegram's biggest privacy concerns is its ability to obtain a person's real information using just their phone number.
Furthermore, you can even obtain the real name they've set in Telegram:
This means that even if you don't know the person, possessing their phone number allows you to gather a range of personal information through Telegram. If they use the same username on other social platforms (like Instagram or Twitter), you might even be able to uncover more details by following that lead.
Telegram won't directly tell you "you've been blocked," but there are a few telltale signs:
If all three of these signs appear simultaneously, it's highly likely you've been blocked.
Telegram has a "screenshot protection" feature, especially in Secret Chats and for self-destructing photos. If someone takes a screenshot, you receive a notification.
However, the issue is:
If you're worried about someone screenshotting sensitive content, the best approach is not to send it. Especially when using an iOS device, don't rely too heavily on this feature.
Many people are unaware that the Telegram desktop app automatically saves all received images, videos, and audio files by default.
These files are typically saved in your "Downloads" folder, with a path similar to:
C:\Users\YourName\Downloads\Telegram Desktop
If you've ever logged into Telegram on a work computer or a friend's machine, you might have unintentionally left behind a large number of private files.
This way, each time you receive a file in the future, Telegram will prompt you for a save location instead of automatically storing it.
Telegram's "People Nearby" feature helps you find users or groups in your vicinity, but it can also expose your location without your knowledge.
On the "People Nearby" page, tap "Don't show me" to immediately stop displaying your location to others.
Telegram's regular chats are not end-to-end encrypted; only "Secret Chats" are. If you require the highest level of security, be sure to use the Secret Chat mode.
Go to "Settings" → "Privacy and Security" → "Phone Number" and select "My Contacts" or "Nobody." This will prevent strangers from searching for you by your phone number.
By default, everyone can see your online status. You can change this in "Privacy and Security" → "Last Seen & Online" by setting it to "My Contacts" or "Nobody."
Regular chat history is stored on Telegram's servers (in the cloud). However, Secret Chat history is only saved on your local device and supports self-destruct timers.
Go to "Settings" → "Privacy and Security" → "Delete my account." Choose a time duration (e.g., 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, or 12 months). If you don't log in during this period, your account will be automatically deleted.
Telegram does exhibit strong performance in terms of encryption and security, but it is not without its flaws. Many privacy leak issues often stem from users overlooking feature settings, rather than from system vulnerabilities themselves.
If you want to maximize your privacy protection, we recommend:
Remember, even the strongest encryption tools require correct usage by the user to be truly effective.
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