Telegram
Significant RiskTelegram is a legitimate messaging app with strong privacy features. However, these same features - secret chats that auto-delete, encrypted messages, anonymous channels - make it attractive for hiding conversations from parents. It's also known for hosting channels with illegal content, including CSAM.
Consider removing or heavily restricting this app.
Documented Incidents
SextortionJan 2023
Telegram Used in Sextortion Schemes
FBI reports indicate that sextortion criminals frequently use Telegram for its encrypted, disappearing message features to communicate with and extort victims.
Source: FBIApp Information
Age Rating
17+Platforms
iOSAndroidWindowsMacWeb
Last updated: 7/20/2026
Key Risks
- •Secret chats leave no trace
- •Messages can auto-delete
- •Large group chats with strangers
- •Channels may host illegal content
- •Predators use for grooming
- •Difficult to monitor
Warning Signs
- •App icon is blue paper airplane
- •Child secretive about messaging
- •Uses 'secret chats' feature
- •Unknown contacts
What Parents Can Do
- ✓Understand it's not inherently bad, but has risks
- ✓Discuss who they communicate with
- ✓Consider if they genuinely need encrypted messaging
- ✓Check for secret chat usage
- ✓Know that you cannot recover deleted messages
Safer Alternatives
- →iMessage
- →WhatsApp (with Family Sharing visibility)