What Is a Self-Destruct Note?
A self-destruct note (also called a "burn after reading" message or one-time secret) is a piece of text that can only be viewed once. After the recipient opens the link, the content is permanently deleted from storage — there's no way to view it again, even by the person who created it. This makes it ideal for sharing things that shouldn't have a permanent digital footprint, like temporary passwords, API keys, or private personal messages.
How It Works
- 1
Write your note
Type the message, password, or secret you want to share securely.
- 2
Set an expiry window
Choose a maximum time limit in case the note is never opened — it auto-deletes after 24 hours by default.
- 3
Share the one-time link
Send the generated link or QR code to your recipient through any channel you trust.
- 4
Note self-destructs on open
The moment the link is visited, the content is shown once and then permanently erased from our servers.
When to Use a Self-Destruct Note
Sharing passwords
Send a one-time password or credential to a colleague without it sitting in chat history forever.
Sensitive personal messages
Share something private that you don't want lingering in someone's inbox or message thread.
API keys & tokens
Hand off a temporary credential that disappears the moment it's retrieved.
Confidential instructions
Send time-sensitive instructions that shouldn't be searchable or forwardable after the fact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I read the note again after it's opened?
No. Once opened, the note is permanently deleted from storage — there is no way to recover it, even for the person who created it.
What if no one opens the note?
It auto-expires and is deleted at the time window you select (1 hour to 7 days), whichever comes first.
Is the note encrypted?
All traffic is encrypted in transit via HTTPS/TLS. If you add a password, the note requires that password to view, providing an extra layer of access control on top of the one-time-use mechanism.