Is Telegram Safe? Top Tips for Using it Securely

Telegram, renowned for its user-friendly interface and robust security features, stands out as a preferred platform for many people worldwide. However, questions around the safety of using Telegram still arise. Is Telegram really safe?

Telegram is considered a secure messaging app, thanks to its encryption protocols. However, it’s important to note that not all chats on Telegram are end-to-end encrypted. Only secret chats benefit from this level of security. Regular chats and group chats are encrypted, but the messages are stored on Telegram’s servers, which could potentially be accessed by third parties.

Like any other online platform, it is important to take precautions to protect your privacy and security on Telegram. This piece highlights some of the top tips for using Telegram securely.

To use Telegram securely:

Enable Two-Step Verification

Two-step verification adds an extra layer of security to your Telegram account by requiring a second form of authentication in addition to your password. This could be a code sent to your phone number or email address. To enable two-step verification, go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Two-Step Verification, and follow the on-screen instructions. Make sure to choose a strong, unique password for added security.

Use Secret Chats for Sensitive Conversations

Telegram’s secret chats feature provides end-to-end encryption for your messages, ensuring that only you and the recipient can read them. Messages in secret chats are not stored on Telegram’s servers and can only be accessed on the devices involved in the conversation. A previous article discusses what secret chat on Telegram is, and how to use it. 

Be Wary of Unknown Contacts

Avoid accepting messages or files from unknown contacts, as they could be malicious. Hackers often use phishing attempts to trick users into revealing sensitive information or installing malware on their devices. If you receive a message from an unknown contact, it’s best to ignore or block them.

Disable Message Previews

Message previews can be convenient but can also compromise your privacy if they display sensitive information in notifications. To disable message previews, go to Settings > Notifications and Sounds > Message Preview, and select “No Preview.” This way, message content will not be displayed in notifications, keeping your conversations private.

Keep Your App Updated

Keeping your Telegram app updated to the latest version is important for security reasons. Updates often include security patches that fix vulnerabilities and protect you from potential threats. To update Telegram, go to your app store (Google Play Store for Android) and check for updates.

By following these tips, you can enhance the security of your Telegram account and protect your privacy while using the app.