Telegram offers a range of security and privacy settings that, when configured correctly, can significantly enhance the protection of your data and communications. To achieve maximum security, it is essential to move beyond the default settings and proactively configure your account.

Here is a comprehensive guide to configuring Telegram for maximum security.

1. Enable Two-Step Verification (2FA)
This is the most critical step to prevent unauthorized access to your account. By default, Telegram only requires a one-time code sent via SMS to log in. Two-Step Verification adds a second layer of security by requiring a password in addition to the SMS code.

How to Set It Up:

Go to Settings.

Tap Privacy and Security.

Select Two-Step Verification.

Create a strong, unique password and provide a recovery email address. The recovery email is vital in case you forget your password.

2. Utilize Secret Chats
Telegram's regular "Cloud Chats" are encrypted in transit but stored on Telegram's servers. For a higher level of privacy, you must use "Secret Chats," which offer end-to-end encryption.

How it works: In a Secret Chat, only you and the recipient have the decryption keys. Telegram cannot access the content of these messages.

How to Start One:

Tap the "New Message" icon (usually a pencil or pen).

Select New Secret Chat and choose your contact.

Key Features of Secret Chats:

Messages do not sync to the cloud, so they are only available on the devices used for the chat.

You can set a self-destruct timer for messages, photos, and videos.

3. Adjust Your Privacy Settings
Minimize the personal information visible to strangers by adjusting these key settings.

Phone Number:

Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Phone Number.

Set "Who can see my phone number?" to "Nobody".

For "Who can find me by my number?", select "My Contacts" to ensure friends can still find you.

Last Seen & Online:

Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Last Seen & Online.

Set "Who can see my last seen time?" to "Nobody" to prevent others from tracking your activity.

Profile Photo:

Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Profile Photos & Videos.

Set "Who can see my profile photo?" to "My Contacts" to prevent strangers from accessing your photo.

Calls:

Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Calls.

Set "Who can call me?" to "My Contacts" to block unwanted calls.

Under the "Peer-to-Peer" setting, select "My Contacts" or "Nobody". Setting it to "Nobody" routes calls through Telegram's servers, hiding your IP address, but may slightly lower call quality.

4. Manage Your Sessions and Devices
Regularly review and manage the devices logged into your account to prevent unauthorized access.

Check Active Sessions:

Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Devices.

Review the list of devices logged into your account.

If you see any unfamiliar devices, select them and tap "Terminate Session". You can also terminate all other sessions at once.

5. Secure the App on Your Device
Even if your phone is unlocked, you can prevent someone from accessing your chats.

Passcode Lock:

Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Passcode Lock.

Enable this feature and create a secure PIN or password.

You can also set up biometric authentication (fingerprint or Face ID) for faster access.

6. Additional Tips for Advanced Security
Disable Auto-Download: Go to Settings > Data and Storage > Automatic media download and turn off automatic downloads for all media types. This helps prevent malware from being downloaded to your device through a malicious file.

Use a VPN: A VPN can mask your IP address, adding an extra layer of privacy, especially when you are on public Wi-Fi.

Self-Destruct Account: Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > If away for. Here you can set a timer (e.g., 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, or 1 year) after which your account will be automatically deleted if you are inactive. This is a good precaution in case of a prolonged absence.