Telegram Self-Destructing Messages
Telegram offers two main types of disappearing content:
- Self-Destruct Timer - Messages that delete after a set time (in Secret Chats)
- View Once Media - Photos and videos that delete after being viewed once
How to Send View Once Media on Telegram
- 1Open any chat in Telegram
- 2Attach a photo or video
- 3Tap the timer icon
- 4Select "View Once"
- 5Send the media
Secret Chats vs Regular Chats
| Feature |
Regular Chat |
Secret Chat |
| View Once Media |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
| Self-Destruct Timer |
❌ No |
✅ Yes (1 sec - 1 week) |
| Screenshot Detection |
❌ No |
✅ Notifies sender |
| End-to-End Encryption |
Server-side only |
✅ Full E2E |
Telegram View Once Limitations
- Screenshot protection only in Secret Chats
- Screen recording not always detected
- Self-destruct timer only available in Secret Chats
- Can't forward View Once media
- No password protection option
OneTimeView as Telegram Alternative
Enhanced Features
- ✅ Share links in any Telegram chat (not just Secret Chats)
- ✅ Custom view counts (1-100 views)
- ✅ Password protection
- ✅ Flexible expiration times
- ✅ Larger file support (100MB free)
- ✅ Multiple file formats supported
How to Use with Telegram
- Create secret at OneTimeView.app
- Copy the generated link
- Paste into any Telegram chat or channel
- Content auto-deletes after viewing
FAQ
Can you screenshot Telegram View Once photos?
Yes, but in Secret Chats, the sender will be notified. In regular chats, there's no screenshot
notification.
How long does View Once media last on Telegram?
View Once media stays available until the recipient views it, then immediately deletes. There's
no time limit before viewing.