10 Telegram security settings not everyone knows about

1. Two-step verification (additional password).

Usually, you need a code from an SMS to log into Telegram. But if someone intercepts this code, they will have access to your account. Two-step verification adds another layer of protection — a password that only you know.

How it works:

• enter the code from the SMS;
• enter your own password as an additional step.

You can also add an email address to restore access to Telegram.

Who needs this:

• active Telegram users;
• business account owners;
• those who store important data in chats.

It's like having an alarm system in your flat: better to have one than to regret it later when someone breaks in.

2. Deleting messages on a timer (automatic self-destruction).

This feature does not replace secret chats, but complements them by allowing you to set up automatic deletion of messages in chats by timer. After reading or after a set time, messages disappear from you and your conversation partner without the possibility of recovery. The timer can be changed or turned off at any time.

What this feature does:

• automatically deletes text, photos, videos, and voice messages;
• works in private, group, and secret chats;
• doesn’t require manual clearing of history;
• reduces the risk of information leaks.

When this is particularly useful:

• sharing passwords, codes, details;
• temporary agreements;
• work communication without saving history;
• personal conversations that should not be stored for years.

It's like a note on a sticky note: the information exists for exactly as long as it is needed — and then disappears without a trace.

3. Locking Telegram with a code.

The lock code is an additional PIN code for logging into Telegram, even if your phone is already unlocked. Without it, no one will be able to open chats, view messages or media.

What does the Telegram lock code do?

• it protects your correspondence from outsiders;
• it works separately from your phone code;
• can be combined with Face ID or fingerprint recognition;
• allows you to automatically lock Telegram after a specified time.

By setting your own PIN code in the settings, the app will lock after you exit Telegram or after a certain period of inactivity. To access it, you need to enter a code.

When this is especially important:

• if your phone sometimes ends up in the hands of other people;
• for work or business accounts;
• if there is confidential information in your chats;
• when travelling or using public places.

It's like a lock on a personal diary: even if someone picks it up, they won't be able to read the contents without the code.

4. Locking Telegram with Face ID or fingerprint.

Like creating secret chats, this option is also only available on smartphones. Even if the phone is unlocked, Telegram can have separate protection using access keys.

In the app, you can enable locking by:

• Face ID;
• fingerprint for access to Telegram.

Why it's convenient:

• no one can read your messages without permission;
• you have extra protection if you lose your phone.

It's like having a personal safe inside your smartphone. Another reliable way to protect Telegram from hacking.

5. Sessions and active devices.

In Telegram's privacy settings, you can see:

• which devices have been used to log in;
• where and when the last access was.

If you see something suspicious, you can instantly end the session on any device.

This is useful when you:

• logged into your account on someone else's computer;
• sold or lost your phone;
• just want to be sure you're safe.

Session control is like a list of all the locks that open with your key.

6. Hidden phone number.

Telegram is linked to your phone number, but that doesn't mean everyone has to see it. If your number is public, people in chats, channels, or groups where you've left a comment can see it. In some cases, this can lead to unwanted calls, messages, or even fraud.

In the privacy settings, you can choose:

• who can see your number: everyone / only your contacts / no one;
• who can find you by number: everyone / only your contacts.

This is especially relevant when you:

• sell something on Telegram;
• participate in large chats;
• don’t want strangers to know your number.

It's like keeping your phone number private for your loved ones only, rather than posting it on a message board.

7. Last seen.

Telegram shows other users when you were online or when you last used the app. But you can control this information completely — even hiding it entirely: instead of the exact time, Telegram can show vague wording.

What does the last seen status include:

• ‒ «online» — when you are currently on Telegram;
• ‒ «was just now», «recently», «a while ago» — if the exact time is hidden;
• ‒ approximate time of last login.

In the privacy settings, you can choose:

• who can see your last activity: everyone / contacts / no one;
• individual cases — who to show or hide your status from.

But keep in mind: if you hide your status, you won't be able to see the exact activity times of others either.

When is this feature particularly useful?

• to avoid monitoring or unnecessary questions like «Why aren't you responding?»;
• in work communications with clients;
• if you want to respond at a time that is convenient for you;
• for general digital hygiene.

It's like a closed door with a peephole: you decide when and to whom to show that you are «home».

8. Profile photo privacy settings.

Your Telegram profile photo is the first thing other users see. But you decide who exactly sees it. If you don't want complete strangers to see your photo in public chats or work groups, you can narrow down the circle of people who can see it.

To secure your Telegram profile, you can set your photo to be:

• visible to everyone;
• visible only to contacts;
• completely hidden;
• visible only to specific people.

Who this option is suitable for:

• those who communicate with customers;
• users of work chats;
• people who value privacy.

It's like a badge: for your own people — with a photo, for acquaintances — without it, and for outsiders — hidden altogether.

9. Protection against being added to groups.

Telegram allows you to configure who has the right to add you to groups and channels.

The options are simple:

• everyone;
• only contacts;
• or contacts + exceptions.

Without this setting, you may be added to dozens of advertising or dubious groups without your permission.

This option is especially useful for:

• children and teenagers;
• older people;
• those who want to minimise spam.

Fewer random chats means more order in your messenger.

10. Secret chats with a self-destruct timer.

A secret chat is a special chat format where messages:

• are not stored on Telegram servers;
• are not forwarded;
• cannot be opened on other devices;
• can be automatically deleted by a timer.

Secret chats only work on smartphones (they cannot be created in the web version of Telegram). To create a secret chat, click on the contact you want, press «:» in the upper right corner and select ‘Start secret chat’ from the menu.

You can also set a time limit for your messages to disappear after being read. So even if someone gains access to the other person's phone, the old messages will no longer be there.

When to use it:

• sharing passwords or codes;
• discussing personal topics;
• one-off important agreements.

It's like a face-to-face conversation that leaves no trace in the digital environment.

Telegram's security settings are not complicated or «for IT specialists». They are simple tools that make using the messenger more comfortable and peaceful. And with a stable and fast Internet from Maxnet, you can be sure that all these features will work without fail — at home, at work or when communicating with loved ones online.