Understanding Telegram Privacy Settings: How Do Others See My Phone Number?

Ever wondered if your phone number appears when you join Telegram groups? The truth is, whether or not your phone number is visible to others depends on a few key factors within Telegram's privacy settings. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure your privacy while using the app.

1. When Can Others See My Phone Number?

Others can only see your phone number if:

You are in their contacts: If they have your phone number saved directly in their contacts, they will see it. Your privacy settings are configured to allow it: Telegram gives you control over who can see your phone number.

To manage who can see your phone number on Telegram, navigate to the Settings > Privacy and Security > Phone Number in the app.

2. Default Privacy Settings

By default:

Your phone number is visible to your Telegram contacts: Anyone who has saved your phone number in their contacts and also uses Telegram will see it in their contact list. Your phone number is not visible to other users: Unless they are in your contacts or have interacted with you in a specific way.

Telegram does not display your phone number by default to other users. However, you can choose who can see your phone number through the app settings.

3. How to Manage Privacy Settings

Step 1: Open Telegram and go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Phone Number.

Step 2: Under the section labeled “Who Can See My Phone Number,” select “Nobody” if you want to hide your phone number completely. Alternatively, select “Everyone” to share it with everyone.

Step 3: Below, under “Who Can Find Me By My Number,” you can choose between “My Contacts” or “Nobody.” This setting allows others to search for you by your phone number.

4. Additional Considerations

Telegram requires a phone number to create an account. By default, your phone number is visible to your Telegram contacts.

It's also important to note that if you've granted Telegram access to your contact books, all contacts who have your phone number saved will be able to see it and know you use the app.

5. Sending Messages Without Sharing Your Phone Number

When sending messages in private chats and groups, you don't have to make your phone number visible. By default, your number is only visible to people you've added as contacts within your address book.

You can further customize these settings in Settings > Privacy and Security > Phone Number.

Understanding and managing your privacy settings on Telegram is crucial in protecting your personal information. By following the steps outlined above, you can control who sees your phone number and maintain a high level of privacy within the app.