Telegram is an encrypted messaging app. Because many people do not understand what encryption or data privacy really mean—or what their rights are—there is naturally a lot of bad talk. People associate a service or platform with high profile users who make trouble. These users take advantage of the privacy granted by the platform. The average person looking to stay safe and discreet in private matters is who I’m speaking to in this guide. For more information about information security and other ways to protect yourself, check out my guide to security.