Why it helps: Many people have old or irrelevant numbers in their phone's address book. Disabling sync and deleting old synced contacts prevents them from cluttering your Telegram list.
2. Remove Unwanted Contacts from Telegram
Even with sync off, you might have contacts you added manually or interacted with.
Open the chat with the contact you want to delete, or find them in your Telegram contact list.
Tap on their profile picture/name at the top of telegram number database the chat to open their profile.
Tap "Edit" (on iOS) or the three-dot menu (⋮) (on Android) in the top-right corner.
Select "Delete Contact".
Telegram may ask if you also want to delete them from your phone's address book. Choose accordingly.
Why it helps: Manually prune your Telegram list of individuals you no longer communicate with or wish to see.
3. Block Unwanted Users (For Persistent Issues)
If a contact you don't want is still messaging you or repeatedly reappearing, blocking them is the solution.
How to Block:
Go to their profile (as above).
Tap "Block User" (on iOS) or the three-dot menu (⋮) (on Android), then "Block".
Why it helps: Prevents them from messaging you, seeing your online status, or adding you to groups (if your privacy settings allow).
4. Manage "Contact Joined Telegram" Notifications
These can add noise to your chats or notifications if you have many contacts.
How to Disable:
Go to Settings > Notifications and Sounds.