Start a public chat (Telegram/Discord) + baseline anti-scam controls
If you open a public chat, impersonators and scam DMs typically show up quickly.
Common Practice Controls
- Restrict who can post links and create invites
- Require verification / screening for new accounts (Discord)
- Pin an “Official Links” message + “We never DM first” warning
- Use a dedicated “reports” channel (Discord) or instructions for reporting (Telegram)
- Minimize admin accounts; require 2FA for admins/moderators (where supported)
Discord: official safety + reporting
Four steps to a safer server:
Reporting abusive behavior:
Telegram: verification + moderation
Verification guidelines:
Moderation + reporting overview: Telegram Moderation Overview
Create the chats fast (Discord templates + Telegram channel/group/forums)
Discord: template-first setup (fastest)
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Create a new server using a Server Template so you start with pre-built channels/roles/permissions.
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If you’re starting from scratch, Discord’s server creation flow is still a ~1–2 minute setup (name, icon, invite).
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Use Discord’s setup checklist to tighten structure (channels, roles, moderation basics) before you share invites publicly.
Telegram: recommended structure (announcements + discussion + forums)
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Create an Announcement Channel (broadcast-only) from the “New Message” menu → “New Channel”.
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Create a Discussion Group (your main community chat). Telegram’s group tour covers the basic create/invite flow.
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Link the channel to the discussion group to enable comments on channel posts (this keeps the channel clean while still allowing discussion).
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Turn on Topics (forum mode) in the group to create “sections” like General / Support / Announcements Chat / Off-topic. Topics are available for groups at scale (Telegram has expanded availability over time).
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Optional: use Shareable Chat Folders as a one-link onboarding flow that lets users join your channel + group together.
Discord — create a server:
https://support.discord.com/hc/en-us/articles/204849977-How-do-I-create-a-server
Discord — Server Templates:
https://support.discord.com/hc/en-us/articles/360041033511-Server-Templates
Discord — Server Setup Guide:
https://support.discord.com/hc/en-us/articles/33023827550359-Discord-Server-Setup-Guide
Telegram — create a channel:
Telegram — groups (create + invite links):
Telegram — channel comments via discussion groups:
Telegram — topics (forums) in groups:
Telegram — shareable chat folders (one-link onboarding):