The settings and habits that keep your Telegram account and conversations safe.
Turn on two-step verification
Two-step verification adds a password beyond the SMS code, protecting you from account takeover even if someone gets your phone number. Set it up under Privacy and Security.
Secret Chats
A regular chat is encrypted to Telegram servers; a Secret Chat is end-to-end encrypted, lives only on the two devices, and can self-destruct on a timer. Use it for sensitive conversations.
Privacy settings
Decide who can see your phone number, photo and status — My Contacts or Nobody is recommended. Periodically review connected devices and end any sessions you do not recognize.
Beware of bots and scams
Grant a bot only the permissions it truly needs, and do not click suspicious links even from a contact. Security is an ongoing habit, not a one-time setting.