How to delete your Telegram account in 2026
What you need to know first
No deactivation. Deletion is immediate and irreversible. Separately, Telegram self-destructs accounts that go unused: the default is 18 months of inactivity, and you can change that period in Settings.
Step-by-step: delete your data from Telegram
- Step 1: Open my.telegram.org/auth?to=delete in a browser
- Step 2: Enter your phone number in full international format
- Step 3: Enter the confirmation code sent INSIDE the Telegram app (not via SMS)
- Step 4: Optionally provide a reason
- Step 5: Click Delete My Account and confirm 'Yes, Delete My Account'
On mobile
- iOS in-app: Settings > Privacy and Security > scroll to account deletion > Delete Account Now
- Android/desktop apps have no in-app delete — use the my.telegram.org web page
Separate data request
Self-destruct timer (Settings > Privacy and Security > 'Delete my account if away for') to auto-delete after inactivity
Key gotchas
- The confirmation code arrives inside Telegram, not by SMS — you need access to the logged-in app
- There is no temporary deactivation
- Re-registering the same number starts fresh — you appear as a new user with no history, contacts or groups
- People who have your number saved are notified when you sign up again
- An unused account self-destructs after 18 months by default — adjustable in Settings
What this doesn't cover
Anything you posted in public channels/groups may have been copied, indexed, or scraped and is unaffected by deletion.
Public Telegram activity and your phone number can end up in broker datasets; deletion doesn't remove those.
See what personal data is exposed about you beyond Telegram.
Run a free scan →Frequently asked questions
Does Telegram delete my data immediately?
Can I opt out of Telegram using my data for training?
Does deleting my Telegram account remove my data from the internet?
What are common mistakes when deleting Telegram data?
Sources
Steps and URLs reflect the platform documentation as of the date above. Platforms may change their settings layout at any time. This guide is informational and not affiliated with Telegram Messenger Inc.