How to Enable Automatic Message Deletion in Telegram

One of the messaging apps renowned for its privacy feature is Telegram, which offers an automatic deletion of messages feature for enhancing security and management of your conversations. The feature can erase messages automatically after a set duration, which suits confidential conversation or temporary details. This tutorial describes step by step how to enable automatic deletion of messages in Telegram on both mobile and desktop devices, with image placeholder for guide images that you can place as of 01:19 PM EEST, Monday, September 29, 2025.

Why Enable Automatic Message Deletion?

Enabling automatic message deletion protects your privacy by erasing sensitive data—like personal data or business data—after a set time. It's perfect for secret chats, group chats, or single shares, indicating Telegram's commitment to user protection and data management.

Steps to Enable Automatic Deletion of Messages in Telegram

The process varies slightly between mobile (Android and iOS) and desktop devices. Apply the following respective steps:

For Mobile Devices (Android and iOS)

1. Access Telegram Settings

   • Open the Telegram application on your mobile phone.
   • Click the menu icon (three horizontal lines) at the top-left corner.
   • Choose Settings from the menu.

2. Go to Privacy and Security

   • Scroll down and click Privacy and Security to control privacy settings.

1. Enable Auto-Delete for All Chats

   • Tap Auto-Delete Messages.
   • Tap a time period (such as 1 day, 1 week, or 1 month) or Off to disable.
   • The option applies to all new messages in all chats.

1. Apply to Specific Chats

   • Tap a conversation, tap the name of the contact or group at the top.
   • Select Clear History or Start Secret Chat (for auto-deletion).
   • Select Enable Auto-Delete and select the timer (e.g., 1 hour).

Other Privacy Advice

• Secret Chats: Use end-to-end encryption and auto-delete by default through secret chats.
• Group Settings: Enable auto-deletion for all group members (needs admin rights).
• Notification: Inform contacts about auto-deletion to avoid confusion.

Tips for Troubleshooting

• Option Not Showing?: Update your app to the new version via the Google Play Store, App Store, or desktop (since v. 6.2).
• Timer Not Working?: Ensure the setting is being applied to the correct chat or to all chats.
• Support: Contact Telegram support for assistance if needed.

Automatic Deletion Notes

• Published in Telegram version 6.2 and later, updated as of September 29, 2025.
• The messages that are being deleted are being deleted for everyone who is participating, and there is no means of recovery.
• The feature can be disabled or modified whenever needed.

Conclusion

Allowing automatic deletion of messages in Telegram is a powerful way to secure your privacy. By duplicating these steps for cell and adding descriptive photos, you can have this feature up and running in a matter of minutes. As of 01:19 PM EEST, Monday, September 29, 2025, this feature remains a valuable tool for your privacy. Enable it today for a more secure messaging experience!