Telegram "The Account Was Hidden by the User": Meaning

This appears on forwarded Telegram messages when the original sender hid links to their account. You see the name but cannot open their profile.

What it means

When someone forwards a message, Telegram normally adds "Forwarded from" with a link to the original sender. If the sender changed their privacy setting for forwarded messages, the link is removed. Tapping the name then shows "The account was hidden by the user".

Who controls it

Hide your own account in forwards

1. Open Settings › Privacy and Security.
2. Tap Forwarded Messages.
3. Choose Nobody or My Contacts.
4. Add exceptions if you want certain people to see the link.

Can I find the sender?

Not through Telegram. The person who forwarded the message to you may know who wrote it. Respect the sender's choice; they hid the link on purpose.

Related privacy settings

• Phone number: who can see it.
• Last seen and online.
• Profile photo.
• Who can add you to groups.

The default setting

By default Telegram shows your name on messages you forward. You only get the hidden label when someone changes Forwarded Messages in their privacy settings to My Contacts or Nobody.

See hiding your number on Telegram.

Other forwarding labels

Messages forwarded from channels show the channel name and link. Some channels and groups turn off forwarding entirely, so you cannot forward or save their messages.

Is it suspicious?

Not by itself; many people hide forwards for privacy. Be careful with forwarded offers or links from unknown senders, especially ones asking for codes or money.

Bots and forwarded messages

Some bots and tools show the original sender of forwarded messages. When the sender hides forwards, those tools see only the name, the same as you. Nothing in Telegram reveals the hidden account.

Reporting forwarded spam

If a forwarded message is spam or a scam, report it to Telegram from the chat where you received it, and block the person who forwarded it if needed.

FAQ

What does "account was hidden by the user" mean on Telegram?

The original sender hid links to their account in forwards.

How do I hide my account in forwarded messages?

Privacy and Security › Forwarded Messages › Nobody.

Can I see who sent a hidden forward?

No, not through Telegram.

Related: hide your number on Telegram · Telegram message could not be displayed · move Telegram to a new phone.