Telegram has introduced various features to protect your privacy. Besides Secret Chat, you can also explore other safety features in Telegram's Privacy and Security settings like:
Add Two-Step Verifications;
Who can see your phone number;
The Last seen and Online verification;
Who can see your profile picture;
Who can call you;
Who can add a link to your account when forwarding your messages;
Who can add you to groups and channels on Telegram, etc.