Discord and Telegram Security for Creators: Stop Hackers Using Your DMs

Discord and Telegram have become essential tools for creators -- community servers, collaboration spaces, and direct communication with fans. But these platforms have also become prime hunting grounds for hackers targeting creators with malware and scams.

This guide covers the specific threats you face on Discord and Telegram and how to protect yourself and your community.

Why hackers love Discord and Telegram

These platforms are attractive to attackers because:

• Built-in file sharing: Easy to send malware disguised as legitimate files
• Trust within communities: Messages from "friends" or server members feel safer
• Less security scrutiny: Many users do not expect attacks on messaging platforms
• Account hijacking chains: One compromised account can attack all their contacts
• Crypto-native communities: Many users have crypto wallets worth stealing

Common Discord attacks targeting creators

1. Fake Nitro gifts

"Someone gifted you Nitro!" messages with links to fake Discord login pages. These steal your credentials and session tokens.

2. Game beta test scams

"Check out my new game!" DMs from friends (whose accounts were hacked) with malware disguised as game files.

3. NFT/Crypto "opportunities"

DMs about exclusive mints, airdrops, or investment opportunities leading to wallet drainers or malware.

4. Fake verification bots

Bots that ask you to "verify" by scanning a QR code -- which actually logs them into your account.

5. Compromised webhook attacks

If attackers get your server webhook URLs, they can send messages that appear to come from your server.

Common Telegram attacks

1. Fake admin messages

Scammers impersonate group admins with similar usernames asking for "verification" or payments.

2. Malicious bots

Bots that request excessive permissions or direct you to malicious websites.

3. Session hijacking via malware

Telegram desktop sessions can be stolen by infostealers, giving attackers full account access.

4. Premium subscription scams

Fake Telegram Premium offers leading to credential theft.

Securing your Discord account

Essential Discord security settings:

• Enable 2FA: User Settings > My Account > Enable Two-Factor Auth (use an authenticator app)
• Save backup codes: Store these securely -- you will need them if you lose your phone
• Disable DMs from server members: Privacy & Safety > Allow DMs from server members (turn off for untrusted servers)
• Enable explicit content filter: Privacy & Safety > Safe Direct Messaging
• Review authorized apps: User Settings > Authorized Apps -- remove anything suspicious
• Check active sessions: User Settings > Devices -- log out unfamiliar sessions

Securing your Telegram account

Essential Telegram security settings:

• Enable two-step verification: Settings > Privacy and Security > Two-Step Verification
• Set a strong cloud password: This protects your account even if someone has your SMS code
• Add a recovery email: For password reset if needed
• Review active sessions: Settings > Privacy and Security > Active Sessions
• Terminate other sessions: If you see unfamiliar devices, end those sessions immediately
• Control who can add you to groups: Settings > Privacy and Security > Groups

Protecting your Discord server

If you run a community server:

• Require 2FA for moderators: Server Settings > Safety Setup > Require 2FA for moderator actions
• Set up verification levels: Require verified email and account age for new members
• Use verification bots carefully: Only use well-known bots from official sources
• Protect webhook URLs: Never share these publicly -- rotate them if compromised
• Enable AutoMod: Filter spam, suspicious links, and potential scam messages
• Audit permissions regularly: Remove admin access from inactive or unneeded accounts

Red flags to watch for

Be suspicious of:

• DMs about free Nitro, crypto, or exclusive opportunities
• Friends suddenly sending game files or executable downloads
• QR codes asking you to scan for "verification"
• Links to login pages that are not discord.com or telegram.org
• Urgent requests from "admins" asking for account info
• Bots asking for permissions they should not need

What to do if your account is compromised

For Discord:

• Change your password immediately from a secure device
• Enable 2FA if not already enabled
• Revoke all authorized apps
• Log out all other sessions
• Check for unauthorized messages sent from your account
• Alert friends who may have received malicious DMs from you

For Telegram:

• Terminate all other sessions immediately
• Change your two-step verification password
• Review recent messages for unauthorized activity
• Alert contacts about potential scam messages

Your Discord and Telegram security checklist

• Enable 2FA with an authenticator app on both platforms
• Save backup codes securely
• Disable DMs from unknown server members on Discord
• Set a cloud password on Telegram
• Review and terminate unfamiliar sessions regularly
• Never download files from unexpected DMs
• Never scan QR codes for "verification"
• Verify links lead to official domains before clicking