Telegram is a popular instant messaging app known for its speed, security, and numerous features. However, some users may want to delete their account for various reasons: lack of privacy, too many notifications, or simply because they no longer use it. Unlike other platforms, the option to delete a Telegram account within the app is somewhat hidden. You must either follow a specific procedure on a computer or find the account deletion option in the app.
In this article, we will explain step by step how to permanently delete a Telegram account. We will also cover what you need to know before proceeding with the deletion and explore alternative options.
How to Manually Delete a Telegram Account?
Step 1: Access the Account Deletion Page
You need to visit the official deactivation page via a web browser:
- Open a web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.).
- Go to the official account deletion page: https://my.telegram.org/auth.
Step 2: Authenticate on Telegram
Once on the page, you will need to enter the phone number linked to your Telegram account:
- Enter your phone number, including the country code.
- Click the Next button.
- Telegram will send you a confirmation code via the app (not via SMS).
- Open Telegram and retrieve the code.
- Enter this code in the designated field on the deletion page.
Step 3: Confirm the Deletion
After verifying the code:
- A new page will appear, asking why you want to delete your account (optional).
- Click on Delete My Account.
- Telegram will display a confirmation message. Click Yes, delete my account one last time.
Once this action is completed, your account will be permanently deleted.
Automatic Account Deletion in the App
Telegram offers an automatic deletion option after a period of inactivity.
Adjusting the Auto-Deletion Period
By default, Telegram deletes inactive accounts after 6 months, but you can modify this duration. Instead of selecting a period, you can select “Delete My Account” to remove it immediately.
- Open Telegram and go to Settings.
- Select Privacy and Security.
- Scroll down to Automatically Delete My Account.
- Choose from the available options: 1 month, 3 months, 6 months or “Delete My Account”.
If you remain inactive for the selected period, your account will be deleted automatically, along with all your data.
Why Delete a Telegram Account?
Before proceeding with the deletion, it’s essential to understand the reasons why you might want to deactivate your Telegram account.
Lack of Privacy
Telegram offers message encryption, but it’s not enabled by default for all conversations. Some users prefer apps that provide end-to-end encryption for all messages.
Too Many Notifications
Telegram groups and channels can quickly become overwhelming with a large number of daily messages and notifications.
No Longer Needed
Some users create a Telegram account out of curiosity and eventually stop using it. In such cases, deleting the account might be a better option than leaving it inactive.
Switching to Another App
With the rise of other messaging apps like Signal or WhatsApp, some users choose to leave Telegram in favor of another platform.
What You Need to Know Before Deleting Your Telegram Account
Before deleting your account, it is essential to be aware of some important details.
Permanent and Irreversible Deletion
Once your account is deleted, all your data will be erased, including contacts, messages, groups, and shared files. It will not be possible to recover this information.
Loss of Access to Groups and Channels
If you are an administrator of a group or channel, you will automatically lose your status. If no other administrator has been assigned, the group or channel may become inactive.
Restrictions on Re-registration
If you delete your account and later decide to create a new one with the same phone number, Telegram may impose a waiting period before allowing a new registration.
Alternatives to Deleting Your Account
If you want to leave Telegram without permanently deleting your account, here are some alternatives.
Disable Notifications
If notifications are bothering you, you can turn them off without deleting your account.
- Open Telegram and go to Settings.
- Select Notifications and Sounds.
- Disable notifications for chats, groups, and channels.
Delete Conversations and Media
If your goal is to erase your history, you can manually delete all your conversations and clear the stored media on your device.
- Open each chat and tap on Delete.
- Enable the option Also delete for the other person if desired.
- Go to Settings > Data and Storage to clear the Telegram cache.
Uninstall the App
If you simply want to stop using Telegram without deleting your account, just uninstall the app from your smartphone.
- On Android: Press and hold the Telegram icon and tap Uninstall.
- On iPhone: Long press the app and select Delete App.
Conclusion
Deleting a Telegram account requires a few steps, but the process is relatively simple if followed correctly. Before proceeding, ensure you have backed up any important data, as deletion is irreversible.
If you only want to take a break from the app without permanently deleting your account, alternative solutions exist, such as disabling notifications or deleting conversations.
But if you want to stay on the app and grow your Telegram channel’s membership, our services can help you implement a growth strategy.
