Comparison and integrated improvements for a full article on secret chats in Telegram
Telegram's Secret Chats offer an advanced form of private communication, combining ease of use with security and privacy features that surpass even other platforms like WhatsApp.
What is a Telegram secret chat and how is it different?
A secret chat on Telegram is a conversation where messages are not stored on servers and are sent using end-to-end encryption, similar to WhatsApp. However, The main difference is that normal chats in Telegram store all messages in the cloud, allowing access from any device without depending on a single computer..
On the other hand, secret chats on Telegram only remain on the devices on which they are initiated, ensuring greater confidentiality and user control.
How do Telegram secret chats work?
Secret chats use end-to-end encryption, meaning only the sender and recipient possess the keys needed to decrypt the messages. In contrast, regular Telegram chats are stored on servers, although the servers encrypt all information, protecting it in the event of a hack.
This makes secret chats ideal for highly confidential conversations, as they minimize the risk of exposure in the event of attacks on Telegram's servers.
Essential features of secret chats on Telegram
- Messages not stored on the server: All communication is kept within the devices, leaving no trace on Telegram servers.
- End-to-End Encryption: Ensures that only the sender and receiver can read messages, even if they are intercepted.
- Self-destruct messages: Allows you to set timers so that messages are automatically deleted after being read or after a certain amount of time has passed.
- Reject forwarding and screenshot notifications: The forwarding option is disabled, and on iOS, Telegram will notify you if a screenshot of the chat is taken, increasing privacy.
- Sharing secure media files: Photos, videos and documents can be sent with protection and self-destruction if desired.
These features ensure a level of protection and control that benefits both individual users and companies that handle sensitive information.
Steps to create a secret chat on Telegram
Creating a secret chat is easy and can be done from Android, iOS, or the desktop version (which has limitations).
To start one from an existing chat:
- Access the normal chat with the desired contact.
- Tap the name or photo to access the contact information.
- Click on the menu (three vertical dots) and select “Start secret chat”.
To create one from the main menu:
- Click the new chat button (the pencil icon or similar).
- Choose “New secret chat”.
- Select the contact and confirm creation; a lock icon will appear.
Remember that on the desktop version, secret chats are currently only available on the mobile app.
Configuring and Verifying Encryption
To ensure your Secret Chat is end-to-end encrypted:
- Access the secret chat information by clicking on the top bar.
- Look for the “Encryption Key” option.
- Visually share this key with your interlocutor. Both must match, confirming that the communication is secure.
Additionally, Telegram allows you to visually verify the key on each device, ensuring that it has not been intercepted or modified.
Limitations and important aspects
It is important to keep in mind certain limitations of secret chats:
- Only on the device where they are created: They do not automatically sync with other devices.
- Not available on Telegram Web or desktop versions: Only on mobile and tablet.
- They are deleted if you log out or uninstall the app: Without cloud backup or backups, content disappears when you leave the account.
- They require constant attention: For long conversations or conversations across multiple devices, it may be best to use platforms that offer cloud syncing with optional encryption.
An additional tip is to use the self-destruct feature to automatically delete sensitive messages and files, minimizing risks.
Frequently asked questions about secret chats on Telegram
- Can you take screenshots in a secret chat?
On Android, Telegram blocks screenshots in secret chats. On iOS, the app notifies you if someone attempts to take a screenshot. However, you can always use another device to take a screenshot. - Can messages or files be forwarded?
No, it is not possible to forward messages in secret chats, reinforcing confidentiality. - What happens if I log out or uninstall the app?
Secret chats are automatically deleted and cannot be recovered since they are not stored in the cloud. - Can I move a secret chat to another device?
No, those chats only remain on the device they were created on. - Can media files be shared?
Yes, but they are all encrypted and set to self-destruct if desired. - What happens if someone deletes the conversation?
Deletion is automatic and leaves no trace on either device.
Using Telegram's secret chats allows you to manage your most sensitive conversations with the utmost control and protection, making it one of the most secure and versatile features on the market.
