How to lock Telegram chats

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for locking Telegram chats.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Locking Telegram chats is essential for maintaining privacy and security. Users can achieve this through various methods, including built-in app features and device settings.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before locking your Telegram chats, ensure you have the following:
  • •A smartphone or computer with the latest version of Telegram installed (version 8.0 or higher recommended).
  • •Access to your device's security settings.
  • •An active Telegram account.
  • •Backup any important chats if necessary.

Method 1: Using Telegram's Built-in Chat Lock Feature

This method is ideal for users who want to lock individual chats directly within the Telegram app.
  • •Step 1: Open the Telegram app on your device.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to the chat you want to lock.
  • •Step 3: Tap on the chat name at the top to open chat settings.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Chat Info' and then tap on 'Lock Chat'.
  • •Step 5: Set a passcode or use biometric authentication (fingerprint or face ID).
  • •Step 6: Confirm the passcode and ensure the chat is now locked.
  • •Step 7: To verify, try to access the locked chat; it should prompt for the passcode.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 users can follow these steps:
  • •Open Telegram Desktop.
  • •Right-click on the chat you want to lock.
  • •Select 'Manage Chat' and then 'Lock Chat'.
  • •Follow the prompts to set a passcode.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users may experience slightly different steps:
  • •Launch Telegram Desktop.
  • •Click on the chat you wish to lock.
  • •Click on the three-dot menu in the top right corner.
  • •Select 'Manage Chat' and then 'Lock Chat'.
  • •Set your passcode as prompted.

Method 2: Using Device Security Settings

This method is useful for users who want to lock the entire Telegram app instead of individual chats.
  • •Step 1: Go to your device's settings.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to 'Security' or 'Privacy'.
  • •Step 3: Select 'App Lock' or 'App Security'.
  • •Step 4: Find Telegram in the list of apps.
  • •Step 5: Enable the app lock feature and set a passcode or biometric lock.
  • •Step 6: Exit settings and open Telegram to confirm the lock is active.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while locking Telegram chats, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Unable to lock chat' - Solution: Ensure you have the latest version of Telegram installed and restart the app.
  • •Issue: 'Passcode not accepted' - Fix: Double-check your entered passcode and ensure Caps Lock is off.
  • •Problem: 'App lock feature not available' - Workaround: Check if your device supports app locking or consider using third-party app lock tools.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your Telegram security with these expert tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + N - Create a new secret chat quickly.
  • •Command line: Use Telegram's API for advanced security features.
  • •Hidden feature: Enable 'Self-Destruct Timer' for secret chats to enhance privacy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Utilizing both Telegram's built-in features and device security settings provides a comprehensive approach to chat privacy.