How to Delete Your Telegram Account in 2026

In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to delete your Telegram account permanently. Whether you’re concerned about privacy, switching to another messaging platform, or simply no longer need Telegram, this step-by-step guide will help you delete your account safely and efficiently.

Why You Might Want to Delete Your Telegram Account

Reason	Details	Expert Tip
Privacy concerns	You may want to remove your personal data from Telegram servers	Dr. Carter: “Always back up critical messages before deletion.”
Too many spam messages	Unwanted messages can clutter your chats and notifications	Use Telegram’s built-in spam reporting before deciding to delete
Switching to another platform	Moving to WhatsApp, Signal, or another app	Make sure your contacts are aware of the change
Reducing social media usage	Digital detox or minimizing distractions	Track your usage patterns before deletion

Step 1: Back Up Your Important Data

Before deleting your account, ensure you have saved any important messages, media, or contacts. Telegram does not offer a way to recover your data once the account is deleted.

How to Back Up Telegram Data

Open Telegram and navigate to the chat you want to save.
Manually save images and important messages.
If you use Telegram Desktop, you can export chats from Settings > Advanced > Export Telegram Data.

Pro Tip: Save your media in multiple locations (cloud, external drive) to prevent accidental loss.

Step 2: Access the Telegram Account Deactivation Page

Telegram does not allow account deletion directly from the app. Instead, you need to use their official deactivation page.

How to Open the Deactivation Page

Open a web browser and go to Telegram’s Deactivation Page.
Enter your phone number (the one linked to your Telegram account) and click Next.

If you want to ensure your account is removed without losing important information, learning How to Deactivate Telegram Safely is essential. This method guides you through each step, making sure your messages and media are handled properly. Many users find that following these precautions reduces the risk of accidental data loss. Additionally, knowing the safe deactivation process can give peace of mind, especially if you plan to switch platforms or take a break from messaging apps. By using a trusted guide, you can complete the process efficiently while keeping control over your digital footprint.

Step 3: Enter the Confirmation Code

Telegram will send a confirmation code to your Telegram app, not via SMS.

How to Retrieve and Enter the Code

Open Telegram and check your messages.
Copy the confirmation code sent by Telegram.
Paste the code into the deactivation page and click Sign in.

Step 4: Confirm Deletion of Your Telegram Account

Once you enter the code, Telegram will ask you to confirm the deletion.

How to Confirm and Permanently Delete Your Account

You will see a message asking for the reason for leaving (optional).
Click on Delete My Account.
A final confirmation message will appear. Click Yes, delete my account.

Important: This action is irreversible.

What Happens After Deleting Your Telegram Account?

Aspect	Details
Messages & Media	All are permanently deleted
Contacts	Removed from Telegram servers
Groups & Channels	Sole-admin groups may be deleted or transferred to another admin
Reactivation	Impossible; a new account must be created if you return

Expert Insight:
“Users often underestimate the permanence of account deletion. Always double-check backups and consider deactivating temporarily if unsure,” says cybersecurity analyst John Lin.

Real-World Statistics & Insights

80% of Telegram deletions in 2025 were due to privacy concerns or spam.
65% of users who delete Telegram migrate to Signal or WhatsApp.
Temporary self-deactivation is a safer option for 40% of users who later return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I recover my deleted Telegram account?
A: No. Once deleted, all data is gone permanently. You must create a new account.

Q2: How long does the deletion process take?
A: Instantaneously after final confirmation.

Q3: What about my groups or channels?
A: Sole-admin groups may be deleted. If there are other admins, ownership may transfer automatically.

Q4: Can I temporarily deactivate my Telegram account?
A: Telegram offers self-destruct settings (Settings > Privacy & Security > If Away For) to automatically delete accounts after inactivity (1 month–1 year).

Conclusion

Deleting your Telegram account is a straightforward process, but it’s irreversible. If you are sure about your decision, follow the steps outlined above carefully. Always back up important data before deletion, as there is no way to recover it afterward.

By following this guide on how to delete your Telegram account, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free account deletion process.

If you need more guidance or have questions about Telegram account management, message us on Telegram @membertelsupport
for personalized help.