Privacy Settings Beginners Should Review
Telegram’s default privacy is convenient. A ten-minute review still reduces unwanted contact and leaked profile photos.
Last Seen and Online
Settings → Privacy and Security → Last Seen & Online. Many people set this to My Contacts. That keeps status among people you already accepted.
Profile Photos
The same menu controls who can see your photo. If you use Telegram for work and personal chats, consider Contacts Only so unknown numbers cannot screenshot a personal picture.
Forwarded Messages
You can hide a link back to your account when someone forwards your message. Useful if you post in large groups.
Groups and Channels
Limit who can add you to groups. Random public invites are a common source of spam. You can still join public channels yourself from search.