Readers like you help support MUO. When you make a purchase using links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Read More.

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.

How to Disable People Nearby on Telegram

If you've opted into using the People Nearby feature, you can easily turn it off.

MAKEUSEOF VIDEO OF THE DAY
SCROLL TO CONTINUE WITH CONTENT

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

You can go further and turn off your location permissions on your device. For iOS and iPadOS users, go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Location Services > Telegram. Next, tap Never under Allow Location Access.

Android devices have a slightly different user interface. Go to Settings > 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 and reports indicate that the People Nearby feature can be used to triangulate your location on Telegram.

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 rather increase your safety on Telegram and disable the feature.

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.