Telegram has recently come under a lot of criticism from security experts around the world. The main point used by experts to divert consumers' heads is the discovery that Telegram does not use end-to-end encryption by default.
Are you considering quitting Telegram for the reason mentioned above, or just because more of your friends are using another app? Either way, you've come to the right place. Follow the detailed list below and you can cut app links in no time.
How to Permanently Delete Telegram Account from PC
The regular deletion process for Telegram users – which requires a period of inactivity for the app – can take several months. However, for those in a hurry, the developers have left an escape route. Follow the instructions below to delete your Telegram account on the PC, and without a long wait.
- Open the account deactivation page.
- Fill in the required field with your phone number (include country code) and click “Next”.
- Return to your Telegram app, you should receive a message containing a code.
- Enter the code in the required field on the site.
- Proceed to "Delete Account" in the "Telegram Core" section.
- If you wish, you can leave a comment explaining why you are leaving the application, but it is not obligatory. Click on “Delete my account”.
The application will ask you if you are sure you want to continue. Click "Yes" and the process is complete.
Once this step is completed, all your information, conversations and contacts will be permanently deleted from Telegram's servers.
How to Permanently Delete Telegram Account from iPhone
Mobile device users do not have the option to delete their Telegram account so quickly. There is a deactivation process that must be followed. This means that you will have to set a deletion period during which the application must remain unused on your phone. Your account will then be permanently deleted along with all data, chat history and contacts when the period expires.
Here are the steps to delete your Telegram account from an iPhone:
- Open your Telegram app and go to "Settings".
- Open “Privacy and Security”.
- Look for the “If away for…” option.
- Select a duration from the drop-down menu.
Leave your account inactive for the specified time and it will be automatically deleted.
How to Permanently Delete Telegram Account from Android Device
The process is pretty much the same for Android users and follows these specific steps:
- Open "Settings" by going to the app.
- Open “Privacy and Security”.
- Select the “If absent for…” option.
- Select the appropriate duration.
- Save your changes.
The account will be deleted if left inactive for the specified time.
What are the “Sage” alternatives?
Secure messaging is not a myth. Modern apps like Viber, WhatsApp, and Signal use end-to-end encryption to hide your data from any third parties who might be interested in what you're talking about. However, not all applications have the same level of protection. Some apps are created by non-profit organizations, while others (like WhatsApp) are owned by large corporations (Facebook).
End-to-end encryption means messages are scrambled into an unidentifiable code that only the device receiving the message can decipher. Even though an app may have it, sometimes it's something you may need to enable.
Additionally, the best messaging apps are open source, which means their code is open to the public to view and report bugs.
If you're looking for "safe" alternatives, here's a list of a few, what we know about how they process your information, and the services they provide:
1. REPORT
- Rated as the most encrypted app of 2022
- Free use
- Uses advanced encryption methods, securing your data (set by default)
- Works on all major platforms (Android, IOS, Windows, etc.)
- With it you can: send text messages, share (photos, videos and files), make video and voice calls and join chat groups
- You can set messages to disappear after a certain period
- The application belongs to a non-profit organization
- The only drawback is that it is not anonymous; you still need to enter your phone number
2. WICKR
- Also, one of the most encrypted apps of 2022
- Have free and paid versions
- End-to-end encryption by default
- Open source
- Ownership of a non-profit organization
- Used on all popular platforms
- Free version includes file sharing, one-to-one voice/video calls, text messaging, and groups of up to 10 members
- The paid version has an option of encrypted video/voice calls for up to 70 people
3. VIBRATES
- Solid service, but with some downsides
- Free use
- End-to-end encryption by default
- Has a feature to color code your conversation security
- Can be used on all major platforms
- Groups, SMS, sharing (photos, videos and files), voice/video chat
- Not open-source, so more bug-prone and less transparent
- Owned by Rakuten, a large e-commerce company based in Japan
- Group chats do not have end-to-end encryption
Choose your destiny
Now that we have helped you permanently delete your Telegram account, all you have to do is choose the application that best suits your needs. If you're someone who cares about privacy and information protection, consider the options we've given you and, of course, do your own research before deciding.
Already using another app? Do you have something to add to our list? Was the item successful in meeting your needs? Write to us in the comments section to let us know.
