Telegram seems to be superior to popular messaging apps like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger in terms of security and privacy. Telegram is open-source, and all of its code is available for security professionals to review publicly.
However, Telegram only supports server-side encryption by default. The messaging app automatically synchronizes your data (messages, media, and groups) across all of your devices and uploads it to its servers. Moreso, Telegram’s server encrypts all of its data. That means you’re safe from interception by your internet service provider, Wi-Fi routers, and other third parties.
Meanwhile, if Telegram virtually wanted to, they might still be able to access your data. However, if you want end-to-end encryption, which means no one (including Telegram) can access your data, you’ll need to switch to Secret Chat mode.
That takes us to the focal point of this guide. Below, we’ll walk you through the basics of how to start an encrypted secret chat in Telegram.
What Is Secret Chat in Telegram?
Secret Chat mode is only for one-on-one chats; it does not work for groups (of any size). Telegram enables end-to-end encryption once you enter Secret Chat mode. Since the messages are only saved on your devices and not on Telegram’s servers, only you and the recipient can see them. No one else, even Telegram, has access to or can decipher the chats.
Once the Secret Chat mode is enabled, you can still chat normally. Nothing is changed in terms of conversations. However, Secret Chat messages cannot be forwarded, and if you capture a screenshot, the recipient will be notified. Additionally, when you delete a message, it is removed from both users’ inboxes.
Here is to start an Encrypted Secret Chat in Telegram
Let’s put the Secret Chat feature to the test now that you know how it works. The procedures are the same for iPhone and Android, but the interface is different.
If you’re an iPhone user, follow the steps below;
- To begin, tap the contact’s name at the top of the conversation.
- Then, tap Profile.
- After that, tap the “More” icon.
- Select the “Start Secret Chat” option from the pop-up menu.
- Finally, to confirm, select the “Start” menu.
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If you’re an Android user, follow the steps below;
- Begin by tapping the name of your contact at the top of the chat.
- Then, from the top-right corner of the screen, hit the three-dot menu button.
- Select “Start Secret Chat” from the drop-down menu.
- Confirm by hitting the “Start” button on the pop-up menu that opens.
With that, you’ve now successfully learned how to start an encrypted secret chat in Telegram Moreover, Secret Chat chats appear in Telegram’s chat list separately, and Secret Chats can be identified by the lock icon next to the user’s name. You can as well send as many messages as you want in this mode.
