Why Did Telegram Remove the "People Nearby" Feature? Full Reasons and Alternatives
Telegram has recently removed the "People Nearby" feature, a popular option that allowed users to discover nearby users and groups using GPS-based location services. The sudden removal of this feature has sparked widespread curiosity and raised questions about the real reasons behind the decision, especially since it was widely used by millions around the world.
What Was the "People Nearby" Feature?
The "People Nearby" feature allowed users to view and connect with other Telegram users or local groups within close geographical proximity. By enabling location services, users could see who was around them and either chat with individuals or join nearby group chats.
Although Telegram warned users that this feature might expose their location, many users chose to use it regardless, seeing it as a tool for socializing, networking, or community engagement.
Why Was the Feature Removed?
The primary reason behind the removal lies in growing concerns over user privacy and safety. Several reports and user complaints revealed misuse of the feature, including:
- Harassment and stalking of nearby users.
- Use of fake GPS apps to spoof locations and trick others.
- Recruitment into suspicious or illegal groups.
- Cyberbullying, threats, or direct blackmail.
These concerns prompted Telegram’s internal security teams to evaluate the risks, ultimately leading to the decision to remove the feature entirely in favor of protecting user data and personal safety.
Official Comments from Telegram
While Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, did not publish a formal detailed announcement, sources close to the company stated that the decision came after deep internal reviews and consultations with cybersecurity experts.
Impact on Users
For some users, especially those who used the feature to make friends or join local communities, the removal was disappointing. However, from a broader perspective, it’s a step toward creating a safer and more privacy-focused environment, giving Telegram an edge over competitors who may still offer similar risky features.
Are There Alternatives?
Currently, Telegram doesn’t offer a direct replacement for the "People Nearby" feature. However, users can still explore alternatives such as:
- Searching for public groups with location-based names or descriptions.
- Using third-party websites or directories that list Telegram groups by category or region.
- Switching to other apps with proximity features that offer stronger privacy controls.
User Reactions
Feedback across social platforms has been mixed. Some applauded the decision as a responsible step towards safety, while others voiced frustration and called for a more secure version of the feature to be reintroduced.
Conclusion
The removal of Telegram’s "People Nearby" feature highlights the platform’s commitment to user privacy and digital safety. While the feature was convenient, the risks it introduced were simply too high to ignore. Looking forward, Telegram users may see new tools emerge that balance connectivity with strong privacy protections.