Burner" Phone/SIM Card:
How it works: Acquire a cheap phone and a prepaid SIM card purchased with cash (if possible) that is not linked to your personal identity. Use this number for registration.
Considerations: Requires physical management of a separate device/SIM.
Phase 2: Configuring In-App Privacy Settings (Essential for All Accounts)
Once your account is created (regardless of the number type used), these settings are crucial for maintaining phone number privacy.
Phone Number Visibility & Discoverability (The Core Settings):
Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Phone Number.
"Who can see my phone number?":
Set to "Nobody". This is the highest level of privacy and ensures your phone number is never displayed on your Telegram profile.
"Who can find me by my number?":
Set to "Nobody". This prevents anyone from finding telegram number database your Telegram account by searching for your phone number, even if they have it saved in their contacts.
Exceptions: You can add specific users to an "Always allow" list if you want certain trusted contacts to see or find you by your number.
Utilize a Username (Your Public Identifier):
Go to Settings > Username.
Create a unique username (e.g., @YourAnonymousHandle).
Always share your username for others to contact you. This allows people to find and message you without ever knowing your phone number.