Location to our innermost thoughts being shared online, many are rightfully concerned about their data falling into the wrong hands. One technology to address these concerns is self-destructing or ephemeral messaging. As the name implies, self-destructing messages are designed to disappear after being viewed. Rather than linger on a server somewhere indefinitely, they vanish without a trace.
Self-destructing messages work
The exact techniques used by different services vary, but the core concept is the same. Self-destructing messages use encryption and other methods to ensure conversations are wiped after expiration:
- Expiration timers are set by the user, usually ranging from a few seconds to a few days. Once the countdown hits zero, poof the message is gone.
- Encryption scrambles messages so only the intended recipient can decipher and view them. The encryption keys needed to unscramble the private note buyers message are deleted along with the expired messages.
- Data erasure techniques like deleting files or overwriting file clusters ensure no trace is left behind on company servers.
Some services even notify the sender when the recipient opens the message, so they know it was seen before disappearing. With photos and videos, extra measures are taken to prevent saving or screenshot ting. Overall, the technology provides a reasonable assurance of privacy, though determined hackers could potentially recover data.
Popular self-destructing messaging platforms
Several major apps now integrate some form of vanishing messages:
- WhatsApp- One of the most widely used messaging platforms with over 2 billion monthly active users, WhatsApp rolled out disappearing messages in 2020. All messages sent in a chat can be set to delete after 7 days.
- Signal- This encrypted communication app offers an option to delete messages anywhere from 5 seconds up to 4 weeks after sending. It has made users concerned about privacy.
- Telegram– Telegram’s Secret Chats feature has essentially provided self-destructing messages since 2015. A timer is set for auto-deletion anytime between 2 seconds and 1 week after viewing.
- Snapchat– The app that pioneered ephemeral messaging, Snapchat allows users to send photos, videos, and texts that are deleted after being viewed. Recipients are notified if the sender screenshots anything.
- Instagram- Owned by Meta, Instagram direct messaging incorporates vanishing messages that be toggled on to disappear after viewing. However, recipients still screenshot your disappearing DMs.
Several other apps like Facebook Messenger, Skype, and Slack have also joined the short-lived messaging trend. It’s increasingly becoming a standard feature.
Businesses can use self-destructing messages
Ephemeral messaging isn’t just for personal chats. More companies are exploring business uses like:
- Protecting sensitive info– Law firms, medical offices, financial institutions, and others encrypt confidential client data using self-destructing messages.
- Coordinating teams-Project groups use disappearing messages to discuss details and make decisions without cluttering inboxes long-term.
- Promoting sales-Brands send exclusive deals and sneak peeks that capitalize on the intrigue and urgency of ephemeral content.
- Conducting interviews– HR screens applicants and conducts interviews privately without permanent written records.
- Providing support– Customer service reps troubleshoot issues in real-time via ephemeral messaging then let conversations expire when done.
Appropriate precautions are still required, and policies should address proper usage. But when applied judiciously, vanishing messages offer companies many of the same benefits as individual users.
