Every communication application today can be a target for spam messages, and Telegram is no different. Therefore, it is crucial to manage spam messages for both your safety and your device’s protection. However, if you’re new to the app, blocking spam can sometimes be a bit tricky. Although most applications provide similar options, the layout varies, making it challenging to locate the correct settings.
This article will guide you through the steps needed to block spam messages on Telegram across various devices.
How to Reduce the Risk of Being Added to Telegram Groups
Spammers often flood your inbox with unwanted messages by adding you to large groups. Given that Telegram groups can accommodate up to 200,000 users, this method allows scammers to quickly target a vast audience. If your username is set to public, they may add you to a group merely by guessing your username through the Global Search, without needing your phone number.
The good news is that you can prevent scammers from adding you to harmful groups with just a few easy steps.
For Android Users
If you’re on an Android device, follow these steps to conceal your phone number and limit being added to groups:
- Launch the Telegram app on your Android device.
- Press the hamburger menu located in the upper left corner.
- After the side menu appears, select “Settings.”
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- Locate the “Privacy and Security” section and click on it.
- Tap on “Phone Number” located within the “Privacy” section.
- Change the default setting from “Everybody” to either “My Contacts” or “Nobody.”
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- In the upper right corner, tap the checkmark.
- Return to the “Privacy” section and locate “Groups & Channels.”
- Change the default setting from “Everybody” to “My Contacts” under the inquiry, “Who can add me to group chats?”
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- To confirm your choices, click the checkmark located in the top right corner.
Using iPhone
On iPhone, the process for limiting who can add you to groups and hiding your phone number on Telegram is similar. Follow these steps:
- Launch the Telegram app on your iPhone.
- Navigate to the “Settings” option found in the bottom right corner.
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- Select “Privacy and Security.”
- In the section labeled “Privacy,” click on “Phone Number.”
- Change the default setting from “Everybody” to either “My Contacts” or “Nobody.”
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To confirm your selections, click on the back button located at the top left corner.
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Return to the “Privacy” section and locate “Groups & Channels.”
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Change the default setting from “Everybody” to “My Contacts.”
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- To confirm your selections, click on the back button located in the upper left corner.
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Using Telegram on Desktop
On Desktop, restricting who can add you to channels, as well as limiting visibility of your number, is nearly identical to the process on Android. Here’s how to accomplish it:
- Launch the Telegram application on your Desktop.
- Select the hamburger menu positioned in the top left corner.
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- Tap on “Settings” when the pop-up menu appears.
- Click on “Privacy and Security” after locating it.
“` - In the “Privacy” section, tap to select “Phone Number.”
- Change the default setting from “Everybody” to either “My Contacts” or “Nobody.”
- Press “Save.”
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- Navigate back to the “Privacy” section and locate “Groups & Channels.”
- Change the default setting “Everybody” under the question “Who can add me to group chats?” to “My Contacts.”
“` - To confirm your choices, click on “Save.”
Identifying a Spam Group
It’s important to recognize when you’ve been added to harmful spam groups to safeguard yourself. Identifying a spam group on Telegram is simpler than it seems.
- Begin by differentiating between groups where you are already a member and those that are new to you.
- If you find yourself added to a group without your consent, check the earlier messages. If they all appear identical and lack the flow of a normal conversation, exit by selecting the “Report Spam and Leave” option.
- When a group member invites you to join giveaways or offers you support for a project in exchange for a fee, it’s likely a spam group attempting to deceive you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a user in the same group see my messages if I block them?
Blocking a user from a group chat won’t prevent them from viewing your messages in that chat; they just won’t be able to message you directly.
What is the process to report someone for spam?
To report someone for spam, click on the three dots located on their profile and select “Report.” Choose “Spam” and submit your report to Telegram’s support team.
What steps should I take if I’ve been reported for spam?
If your account has been mistakenly reported for spam, it may only face restrictions for a few days. However, repeated reports could lead to permanent account suspension.
Stay Safe
While Telegram was once viewed as a safer messaging app, it has become a hotspot for spammers like many other platforms today. As soon as you create your account, consider adjusting your privacy settings using these tips to help regain control if necessary.
Beware of unwanted messages, particularly those that direct you to suspicious links or promote giveaways.
Have you encountered spam on Telegram already? Did you apply any of these strategies to tackle it? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.