How to Delete Telegram Account Permanently – Full Guide
In today’s digital world, managing your online privacy is critical. If you've decided to permanently delete your Telegram account, whether due to privacy concerns, a switch to another messaging platform, or simply reducing digital distractions, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step in detail. We'll cover manual deletion, auto-delete settings, what happens after deletion, and more.
Why You Might Want to Delete Your Telegram Account
Telegram is a powerful and secure messaging app, but there are several reasons users may decide to leave:
- Privacy Concerns
- Switching to other platforms (e.g., Signal, WhatsApp)
- Reducing digital noise
- No longer using the app
- Too many spam messages
Regardless of your reason, deleting your Telegram account is straightforward if you follow the correct steps.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Permanently Delete Your Telegram Account
⚠️ Important: Once your account is deleted, it cannot be recovered, and all your data including messages, contacts, and media will be lost permanently.
Step 1: Visit the Official Telegram Deactivation Page
To delete your Telegram account, you must use a web browser — this cannot be done directly from the mobile or desktop app.
- Open your browser and go to the official Telegram Deactivation Page
- Enter the phone number linked to your Telegram account in international format (e.g., +11234567890).
- Tap on Next.
Step 2: Enter the Confirmation Code
- You’ll receive a code via your Telegram app — not through SMS.
- Open Telegram and copy the code sent to you.
- Paste the code into the confirmation field on the deactivation page.
Step 3: Choose "Delete Account"
- Once signed in, click on the “Delete Account” option.
- You’ll be asked to provide a reason for leaving (optional).
- Click on “Delete My Account” to confirm.
Step 4: Final Confirmation
A pop-up will appear warning you that all data will be permanently lost.
Click “Yes, delete my account” to complete the process.
Alternative: Use Auto-Delete Feature for Inactivity
If you’re not ready to delete your account manually, Telegram offers an auto-delete option that erases your account after a period of inactivity.
How to Set Up Auto-Delete on Telegram
- Open the Telegram App.
- Go to Settings > Privacy and Security.
- Scroll down to If Away For…
-
Choose from:
-
1 month
-
3 months
-
6 months
-
1 year
-
After the chosen period of inactivity, your account will be automatically deleted, including all messages and data.
What Happens After Deleting Telegram Account
Here’s what you should know post-deletion:
- All messages, contacts, and groups are deleted permanently.
- Your username becomes available for others to use.
- Your contacts will no longer see your profile or be able to message you.
- Telegram channels you created will remain but will show “Deleted Account” as the owner.
- Telegram will not retain your data after account deletion as per their privacy policy.
Important Considerations Before Deleting Telegram
Backup Your Data
Telegram does not offer a built-in backup system, so make sure to manually save any important:
- Media files (photos/videos)
- Messages
- Documents shared in groups or chats
You can use Telegram Desktop to save chats or media manually.
Delete All Sessions First (Optional but Recommended)
To enhance your privacy before account deletion:
- Open Telegram.
- Go to Settings > Devices.
- Tap Terminate All Other Sessions.
This will log you out from all devices and reduce chances of unauthorized access before deletion.
How to Delete Telegram Account from Mobile Devices
You cannot delete Telegram account directly from the Android or iOS apps. However, you can use your mobile browser:
- Open a browser on your phone.
- Visit https://my.telegram.org/auth?to=delete
- Follow the steps outlined above.
Can You Reactivate a Deleted Telegram Account?
No. Once your Telegram account is deleted, it is permanently removed. If you wish to return to Telegram:
- You’ll need to register as a new user using your phone number.
- Your chat history, contacts, and groups will not be restored.
Telegram vs. Other Messaging Apps: Why Some Users Leave
Many users switch to alternatives like:
- Signal for open-source end-to-end encryption
- WhatsApp for its widespread usage
- Threema or Session for anonymity
Telegram provides some of the most robust features, but lacks default end-to-end encryption for group chats, which leads many privacy-minded users to consider other platforms.
Final Thoughts
If you're sure about your decision to leave Telegram, following the steps above ensures a safe and complete deletion of your data. Always remember to back up important information before initiating the process. Whether for privacy, convenience, or a digital detox, deleting your Telegram account is a personal step toward controlling your online presence.
FAQs – Deleting Telegram Account
Q: Can I temporarily deactivate my Telegram account?
No, Telegram does not support temporary deactivation. You can either keep your account active or delete it.
Q: Will my groups and channels be deleted too?
Groups and channels will remain, but your profile will be shown as “Deleted Account.”
Q: Can someone else use my username after deletion?
Yes. After deletion, your username becomes available to the public.
Q: Is the deletion immediate?
Yes, once confirmed, the deletion is instant and irreversible.
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