Telegram
What is Telegram?
Telegram is a messaging app for one-to-one conversations, groups, broadcast channels, calls, file sharing, and bots. Regular “cloud chats” are stored on Telegram’s servers so they can sync across devices. Only separate one-to-one Secret Chats use end-to-end encryption. [2] [3]
Age limit: Telegram’s terms require users in EU countries, the UK, and Australia to be at least 18. The public terms do not state that 18 is the universal minimum elsewhere, and local requirements may differ. [1]
Why do kids like it?
- Large communities. Groups and channels make it easy to follow an interest or creator.
- Fast sharing. Messages, media, and files can be reached from several devices.
- Usernames. A username can help people connect without displaying a phone number to everyone.
- Bots and mini apps. Automated services add games, searches, and other tools inside chats.
What are the real risks?
- Public spaces can lead to private contact. People in a group may find the account and try to continue the conversation directly.
- Cloud chats are not end-to-end encrypted. The stronger encryption of Secret Chats does not apply to ordinary chats, groups, or channels. [2] [3]
- Bots and links can be misleading. An unfamiliar bot, giveaway, investment offer, or download can be a route to fraud or malware.
- Large channels can carry unsuitable material. Public content can include explicit, extremist, pirated, or misleading material.
- Live location can reveal current whereabouts. Sharing it in a chat can expose where a child is and, if left active, part of their routine. [3]
Settings to check
Parts of Telegram’s FAQ can be out of date, so check the wording shown in the current app before changing a setting. [3]
- Limit phone-number visibility: Open Settings → Privacy and Security → Phone Number, then review both who can see the number and who can find the account by it. [3]
- Limit group invitations: Open Settings → Privacy and Security → Groups & Channels, and choose who may add the account. [3]
- Review active sessions: Open Settings → Devices, and end sessions on devices the child does not recognise. [3]
- Add a second password: Open Settings → Privacy and Security → Two-Step Verification, and store the recovery details safely. [3]
- Stop location sharing when finished: Open the chat containing the live-location message and stop sharing; location is shared only when a user chooses that action. [3]
- Report or block unwanted contact: Open the account or message menu and use the available report or block option. [3]
How to talk about it
“What do you use Telegram for that feels different from your other messaging apps?”
“How do you decide whether a group, channel, or bot is trustworthy?”
“What would make you want to leave a conversation or ask for help?”
Last reviewed: September 2026