Telegram is a popular cloud-based instant messaging app that allows users to send messages, photos, videos and files privately or in groups. With over 700 million monthly active users, Telegram has many useful features but can also be misused for spamming and scams. If you have joined multiple Telegram groups that you no longer wish to be a part of, here is how to leave or delete them.
Table of Contents
Leaving a Telegram Group
Leaving a group on Telegram removes you from the group but does not delete the group itself. Here are the steps to leave a group:
On Mobile
- Open the Telegram app and go to the group you want to leave
- Tap on the group name at the top
- Select “Leave Group”
- Confirm leaving the group
On Desktop
- Open the Telegram desktop app
- Right click on the group and select “Leave Group”
- Confirm leaving the group
Once you leave, you will no longer receive any messages from that group. The group and all previous chat history will still be available to the remaining participants.
Deleting a Telegram Group You Created
If you created a Telegram group, you have the option to delete it which will remove the group for all participants.
On Mobile
- Go to the group and tap on the group name
- Tap on the edit icon (pen icon)
- Choose the “Delete group” option at the bottom
- Confirm deleting the group
On Desktop
- Right click the group name and choose “Delete Group”
- Confirm deletion of the group
Once a group is deleted, it is permanently removed and cannot be recovered. All previous messages will also be deleted.
Removing Yourself from Multiple Groups
If you have joined a lot of groups that you want to leave, having to leave each one individually can be tedious. Here are some ways to efficiently remove yourself from multiple Telegram groups:
- Use a desktop macro recorder – This allows you to automate leaving groups by recording a macro of the leave process and replaying it.
- Sort groups into a folder – On Telegram desktop, you can create a folder and move all groups you want to leave into it. Then leave the folder which removes you from all groups inside.
- Delete your account – As a last resort, deleting your Telegram account completely will remove you from all groups. You can then sign up again.
Preventing Group Spam
To avoid getting added to random groups without your permission, you can change your Telegram privacy settings:
- Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Groups
- Change “Who can add me” to “My Contacts”
This will prevent people who are not your contacts from adding you to groups without your approval.
Enhancing Telegram Security
While Telegram offers useful features, there are some security concerns to be aware of:
- Enable two-factor authentication to prevent unauthorized access
- Use secret chats instead of regular chats for end-to-end encryption
- Frequently clear cached data and delete old messages
- Be cautious of what personal information you share in groups
By understanding the security features Telegram provides, you can use the app more safely and privately.
