Is Telegram Safe to Use? Risks, Benefits, and Safety Tips

I kept seeing people talk about Telegram app everywhere. My coworkers were chatting on it, my cousins had a big Telegram group chat, and even some of my favorite creators were sharing updates through Telegram channels. Naturally, I decided to sign up for Telegram and give it a try.

At first, it felt like just another popular messaging app, but soon the thought hit me, “Is Telegram safe to use, or am I putting my user data at risk?” That’s when I started looking closer at how this messenger works, its security features, and what it means for privacy and security.

In this guide, I’ll tell you about the benefits, the risks, and some practical tips to help you protect yourself on Telegram. By the end, you’ll have a clear answer to the question: is Telegram safe for you?

What is Telegram App?

Telegram is a cloud-based messaging app that has grown into one of the most popular messaging platforms worldwide. People use it for everything, from casual chats with friends to large Telegram group chats and channels that share updates, news, or exclusive content.

As of March 2025, Telegram has over 1 billion monthly active users. That shows just how many people rely on this app to stay connected.

One reason Telegram stands out is its focus on security features. Unlike apps that store everything on your device, Telegram lets you choose between regular chats and secret chats. The end-to-end encryption in secret chats adds an extra layer of security for sensitive messages.

How Does Telegram Work?

Once you’re on Telegram, messages are delivered almost instantly to the recipient. Here’s how the app works:

• Message Flow: In regular chats on Telegram, messages are stored in the cloud, so you can access your conversations anytime. For sensitive conversations, you can use secret chats, which use end-to-end encryption, meaning only you and the recipient can read them.
• Cloud Storage & Syncing: All your chats, media, and files (photos, videos, documents, voice messages) are stored in the cloud. This allows you to access Telegram from multiple devices seamlessly.
• Groups and Channels: Telegram groups let friends or communities collaborate, while channels broadcast updates to unlimited users in real time.
• Privacy and Security Controls: Telegram lets you manage who sees your profile, secure your account with two-step verification, and even add protection through a VPN.
• Media and Features: Share large files with ease, and enjoy interactive bots, sticker packs, and other creative tools that keep chats fun and engaging.

Benefits of Using Telegram

Telegram is a secure messaging app that offers features making communication easier, making it one of the popular messaging apps available today. Here’s why so many people enjoy using it:

• Fast performance even on slow internet connections, making it a favorite among Telegram users.
• Large file sharing without compression limits, ideal for sending documents or media safely.
• Message editing and deletion gives more control over your Telegram account and chats.
• Custom notifications and privacy settings for personalized control over your messaging experience.
• Polls, quizzes, and bots for interactive group engagement.
• Fun features like sticker packs to make conversations more expressive.

Is Telegram Safe to Use?

Yes, Telegram can be safe, but the user experience entirely depends on how you use the app. Unlike WhatsApp, Telegram doesn’t provide end-to-end encryption for every chat. Only secret chats have that level of protection, while Telegram stores regular chats on company servers.

The app also has an age requirement that you need to be at least 16 years old (or meet your country’s digital age rules) to open a Telegram account. This is because younger users might not be ready to deal with online security risks, scams, and fake profiles that can come with online messaging.

Since Telegram is a free platform, anyone can join, which is both a strength and a weakness.

Telegram's Security And Privacy Features

Telegram is a popular messaging app, but it works differently from apps like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger. Regular chats are stored in the cloud for easy access, while secret chats use end-to-end encryption for extra security.

The app also gives control over your phone number visibility, supports voice and video calls, and includes flexible privacy and security features to help protect your account.

Still, Telegram has faced criticism for not encrypting everything by default, which is why it’s important to look at the risks.

End-to-End Encryption

End-to-end encryption is a security method that ensures only you and the person you’re messaging can read the content. This means even hackers or third parties cannot access your conversations if the encryption is active.

On Telegram, this feature is used in secret chats, giving users options like self-destructing messages and restricted forwarding. Telegram also allows control over who can start a chat, adding another layer of safety. These tools are part of Telegram’s privacy and security features to protect sensitive information.

According to GWI, 4 in 10 consumers outside of China use Telegram, which shows just how many people rely on the platform

Regular Chats vs Secret Chats

Telegram gives users two ways to communicate: regular chats and secret chats, and knowing the difference is key to protecting your privacy.

Privacy and Security Settings

Telegram's security features allow users to control who can see their phone number, profile photo, and online status. You can also enable two-step verification and monitor active sessions to prevent unauthorized access.

In 2025, approximately 31% of internet users worldwide utilize VPN services to enhance their online privacy and security. This growing trend underscores the importance of safeguarding personal data in an increasingly connected world.

Self-Destructing Messages

Building on Telegram’s privacy features, self-destructing messages add another layer of protection. In secret chats, you can set a timer for messages to disappear after being read, keeping sensitive information from lingering on devices.

These messages are fully end-to-end encrypted, so only you and the recipient can access them until they vanish. It’s ideal for sharing personal photos, confidential files, or private conversations without leaving a trace.

Voice & Video Call Security

Telegram also ensures that your voice and video calls remain private. Unlike some apps that store call data on their servers, Telegram encrypts calls directly between participants.

You can control who can contact you and block unknown callers, reducing the chances of spam or unauthorized access. For users concerned about security issues, this makes Telegram a reliable option for private conversations.

Potential Risks of Using Telegram

Even though Telegram offers strong protections, there are a few privacy risks you should keep in mind. Understanding these can help you use the app more safely.

Some key concerns are:

• Data Stored in the Cloud: Regular chats and media are stored on Telegram servers. If a hacker gains access to your account, this information could be compromised.
• Fake Accounts: Telegram is free and widely used, which can attract spam accounts or phishing attempts that may target unsuspecting users.
• Limited Default Encryption: Only secret chats use end-to-end encryption. Regular chats and backups are not fully encrypted, which might expose sensitive information.
• Exposure to Security Issues: Shared files, media, or links could be vulnerable if proper account protection isn’t enabled.

Telegram vs Other Messenger Apps

Telegram is generally safe and one of the most secure messaging apps, but it works differently than WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or Signal. It offers end-to-end encryption only in secret chats, while other apps may provide it by default.

Here’s a quick comparison to show how Telegram stands out among other secure messaging apps available.

How to Stay Safe on Telegram?

Although telegram is a versatile messaging app, your conversations aren’t fully secure. Some chats and shared media could be accessed by others if account settings aren’t carefully configured.

Here are some simple steps that you can follow to stay safe online

• Enable two-step verification to protect your Telegram account.
• Control who can see your phone number, profile photo, and online status.
• Use secret chats that use end-to-end encryption for sensitive messages.
• Avoid sharing personal files or links in public groups or channels.
• Access Telegram via trusted devices and consider using a VPN for added security.

Even with these precautions, some risks remain, especially from third-party apps, unknown bots, or suspicious integrations. That’s where Qoli comes in. Qoli helps you monitor and block risky apps, giving you an extra layer of protection while using Telegram and other messaging platforms.

Here’s what Qoli can do for you:

• Blocks risky apps and prevent them from accessing your Telegram data.
• Helps you set app restrictions to control permissions and protect sensitive info.
• Prevents unauthorized access to your account.
• Boosts security across devices.
• Sends alerts for potential threats.

Conclusion

Overall, Telegram is reasonably safe when used properly. Secret chats with end-to-end encryption, privacy controls, and two-step verification help protect your phone number, profile photo, and messages.

The app allows users to create groups, share media, use sticker packs, and make voice and video calls across multiple devices. While Telegram isn’t perfect and risks like hackers, spam accounts, or phishing exist, most users can safely communicate if they adjust security settings.

In short, Telegram is known for its privacy-focused features and versatility. By staying cautious, understanding security issues, and using available protections, you can enjoy Telegram’s benefits while keeping your personal data safe online.