Tried to search on the internet and even asked via ChatGPT Pro. I’m struggling to delete these categories as indicated by the screenshots, hence posting here for help.
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Do you have a chat channel for the #staff category? Make sure you check both the Open and Closed chats in your forum.
If I remember correctly, on its own, the #staff category cannot be deleted as it is a default category when you create a Discourse forum.
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Correct the Staff Category is a special Category. It is also where you will find the “Terms of Service”, “FAQ”. And you can also use it to upload other assets.
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But is there a way to hide them or not make them visible to the public?
Hi @stanigator 
welcome to Discourse Meta 
So what does this tab say about the category permissions?
I can see from your sreenshot that it is secured because it has the lock icon.
This topic may help:
The Staff Category is intended for full moderators & Admin only .
If you’re looking for a public chat channel you can use a category that has permissions like
Everyone; See/create/reply
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which settings specifically?
chat documentation is here:
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Deleting chats in staff category. But may not be as important to address now.