How to Turn Off Telegram’s People Nearby Feature (and Why You Should)

Telegram has a nifty location-based function called People Nearby. It lets you message users within a two-kilometer radius. The results change based on your current location.

But the feature does pose some concerns. Here’s a quick guide to turning off People Nearby on Telegram, plus reasons why you should.

4

How to Disable People Nearby on Telegram

Telegram’s People Nearby feature is disabled by default, so you must enable it to start using it. If you’ve already opted into using the People Nearby feature, you can easily turn it off.

LaunchTelegram, go toContacts>Find People Nearby>Stop Showing Me. Telegram will stop showing your profile to other users on People Nearby.

firefox logo with yellow warning symbol

To go further, you can optionally turn off your location permissions on your device. This will disable Telegram’s other location-dependent features, like sharing your current location, so it’s a more extreme step if you’re sure you never want the app to access where you are.

For iOS and iPadOS users, go toSettings>Privacy and Security>Location Services>Telegram. Next, tapNeverunderAllow Location Access.

MacBook and a Dell laptop running ZorinOS next to each other

Android devices have a slightly different user interface. Go toSettings>Apps>Telegram, then toggle the Location option under Permissions.

Why You Should Disable People Nearby on Telegram

There are numerous reasons why you should turn off this feature to enhance your privacy and security on Telegram.

Creeps sometimes exploit this feature andreports indicate that the People Nearby feature can be used to triangulate your location on Telegram.

Dell monitor showing Windows 10 desktop

It can also expose you to unwanted contact from scammers or spammers and harm your privacy.It shows your Telegram profile to strangers, who might not always have the best intentions when messaging someone they don’t know.

So ratherincrease your safety on Telegramand disable the feature.

The Telegram Icon With Four Paper Airplanes Around It

Turn off the People Nearby Feature

Turn off the People Nearby feature regardless of how often you use Telegram. It’s not the best way to meet new people when it comes to online privacy. You’re compromising your privacy by exposing your location and profile information to strangers.

There are better ways to make friends online.

If you’re looking to make new friends, you might wonder how the internet can help, away from online dating. So, here are seven platforms for you!

You’re conveying the wrong meaning when you send these emojis.

Make sure you don’t miss these movies and shows before Netflix removes them.

Not all true crime is about hacking, slashing, and gore.

Revolutionize your driving experience with these game-changing CarPlay additions.

Some subscriptions are worth the recurring cost, but not these ones.

Technology Explained

PC & Mobile