How to Block Spam in Telegram

Every communication app these days can experience spam messages, and Telegram is certainly no exception. This makes it critical to limit spam messages for both your personal security and your device’s safety. However, especially for those who are new to the app, the process of blocking such messages might seem confusing. While most applications provide similar options, each has a distinct interface, making it challenging to locate the correct settings.

In this article, you’ll find the complete guidelines for blocking spam on Telegram across various devices.

How to Reduce the Chances of Being Added to Telegram Groups

One method spammers utilize to inundate your inbox with unwanted messages is by adding you to large groups. Given that Telegram groups can accommodate up to 200,000 members, this presents a quick way for scammers to connect with a vast audience. If your username is visible to the public, they can randomly add you to groups by guessing your username in the Global Search, even without knowing your phone number.

Fortunately, there are straightforward steps you can follow to prevent scammers from adding you to harmful groups.

For Android Users

For those using an Android device, here’s how you can conceal your phone number and limit being added to groups:

1. Launch the Telegram app on your Android device.
   
2. Select the hamburger menu located in the upper left corner.
   
3. After the side menu appears, select “Settings.”
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4. Look for “Privacy and Security” and click it.
   
5. Tap on “Phone Number” in the “Privacy” section.
   
6. Change the default setting from “Everybody” to either “My Contacts” or “Nobody.”
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7. In the top right corner, tap the checkmark.
   
   
8. Return to the “Privacy” section and locate “Groups & Channels.”
   
   
9. Change the default setting “Everybody” to “My Contacts” under the question “Who can add me to group chats?”
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10. To confirm your selections, click on the checkmark located in the top right corner.
    

On iPhone

On iPhone devices, the process to limit who can add you to groups and to conceal your phone number on Telegram is quite similar. Follow these steps:

1. Launch the Telegram app on your iPhone.
   
2. Navigate to the “Settings” option found in the bottom right corner.
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3. Select “Privacy and Security.”
   
   
4. Tap on “Phone Number” in the “Privacy” section.
   
   
5. Change the setting from “Everybody” to either “My Contacts” or “Nobody.”

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6. To confirm your choices, click on the back button located at the top left corner.
   
   
7. Navigate back to the “Privacy” section and locate “Groups & Channels.”
   
   
8. Change the default setting from “Everybody” to “My Contacts.”
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9. To confirm your selections, click on the back button in the top left corner.
   

On Desktop Telegram App

On Desktop, the process of restricting who can add you to channels and controlling who can view your number is quite similar to that on Android. Here’s how it’s done:

1. Launch the Telegram application on your Desktop.
   
2. Select the hamburger menu located in the top left corner.
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3. After the pop-up menu appears, select “Settings.”
   
   
4. Locate “Privacy and Security” and click on it.
   
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5. In the “Privacy” section, select “Phone Number.”
   
   
6. Change the default option from “Everybody” to either “My Contacts” or “Nobody.”
   
   
7. Click on “Save.”
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8. Return to the “Privacy” section and locate “Groups & Channels.”
   
   
9. Change the default setting “Everybody” under the prompt “Who can add me to group chats?” to “My Contacts.”
   
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10. To confirm your selections, click on “Save.”
    

Identifying a Spam Group

It is essential to recognize when you’ve been added to spam groups to safeguard yourself from potential harm. Identifying a spam group on Telegram is simpler than it seems.

• Initially, differentiate between groups you already belong to and those that are unfamiliar.
• In case you’ve been added to a group randomly, review the prior messages. If they appear identical and lack normal conversational flow, exit by selecting the “Report Spam and Leave” option.
• Should a group member present opportunities for paid giveaways or projects, it likely indicates a spam group attempting to exploit you.

FAQs

If I block a user in the same group, can they still see my messages?

Blocking a user in a group chat means they will continue to see your messages within that group, despite being unable to message you directly.

What steps do I take to report someone for spam?

To report someone for spam, tap on the three dots located on their profile and select “Report.” Then, choose “Spam” and forward it to Telegram’s team.

What actions should I take if I have been mistakenly reported for spam?

If reported for spam in error, your account may be temporarily limited for a few days. However, repeated reports for spam may lead to permanent account loss.

Prioritize Safety

While Telegram was previously regarded as a safer platform for communication, it has now become a hotspot for spammers like many other apps. It’s vital to modify your privacy settings with the following suggestions immediately upon creating your account to regain control should issues arise.

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Exercise caution regarding unsolicited messages, particularly those that direct you to dubious links or claim to provide giveaways.

Have you encountered spam on Telegram? Did you implement any of the suggestions mentioned to combat it? Share your experience in the comments below.