Send a note that disappears after one read.

Perfect for passwords, codes, or sensitive instructions that should not be stored.

One-time access Auto delete

Ephemeral Message

Create self-destruct note

Write a note, optionally add a secret question, and generate a link that is valid for one read only.

  • Encryption happens in your browser
  • The key is never sent to our server
  • Messages disappear automatically
  • No account required

What do you want to send?

Send sensitive data that disappears.

Share passwords, files, and private notes using encrypted links that expire automatically.

Self-destruct notes for one-time private delivery

Self-Destruct Notes are designed for short messages that should be read once and then disappear instead of living forever in email, chat, or ticket history.

Why use a disappearing note instead of regular messaging

Many sensitive messages are brief: a recovery code, a temporary instruction, a one-time phrase, or a personal detail that should not remain searchable after delivery. A self-destruct note is better suited to that workflow than a standard message thread.

With mbox, the note is encrypted in the browser, sent as ciphertext, and opened through a one-view link. After the message is revealed, it is already removed from the server and then disappears from the reading screen as well.

How self-destruct notes work

The note content is encrypted on the client side before upload, so the service stores only encrypted data. The decryption key remains in the link fragment and is not sent to the server during the request.

This makes self-destruct notes useful when you need a practical Zero-Knowledge handoff for a small but sensitive message.

  • One-view only This product is intentionally limited to a single opening so the note cannot remain available after the first reveal.
  • Optional secret question You can add a secondary identity check before the note is decrypted.
  • Visual disappearance After reveal, the note counts down and disappears from the active reading screen for a clearer self-destruct experience.

Common use cases for self-destruct notes

This is useful for sending one-time instructions, support details, short secrets, temporary warnings, approval phrases, login hints, or personal information that should not remain readable in common communication channels.

It is especially effective when the content is text-only and the real goal is reducing persistence rather than sharing large documents.

Key benefits

Single-use by design

The note is created specifically for one read rather than multi-hour or multi-day access.

No file attachments

The product stays focused on short-lived note delivery without adding upload complexity.

Less history exposure

Sensitive text does not need to sit in inboxes, chat logs, or ticket comments forever.

Optional identity check

A secret question can help confirm the right recipient before the note opens.

Client-side encryption

The service receives encrypted payloads rather than readable plaintext.

Clear destruction behavior

The post-open countdown makes the temporary nature of the note obvious to the recipient.

Self-Destruct Notes FAQ

What is a self-destruct note?

A self-destruct note is a private message that is meant to be opened once and then disappear. In mbox, the note is encrypted in the browser, delivered through a single-use link, and removed from the server after it is opened.

Why is self-destruct note access limited to one view?

The purpose of this product is minimizing message persistence. Limiting access to one opening reduces the chance that the same note remains available for repeated reads, later leaks, or accidental forwarding.

Can I attach files to a self-destruct note?

No. Self-Destruct Notes are intentionally text-only. If you need to share encrypted attachments, use Secure File Drop or the regular secure message flow instead.

Can I add a secret question before the note opens?

Yes. A secret question can be added so that the recipient must know the expected answer before the note is decrypted.

What happens after the note is opened?

Once opened, the note is already deleted from the server because it is a one-view message. On the reading page, an additional countdown makes the note disappear visually from the current session as well.

Is a self-destruct note safer than sending a short secret over chat?

Usually yes. Chat tools often keep searchable history and message retention for long periods. A self-destruct note reduces long-term exposure by using encrypted delivery and single-use access.

Who should use self-destruct notes?

They are useful for admins, developers, support teams, finance staff, founders, and individuals who need to send short-lived text such as temporary instructions, one-time codes, or sensitive reminders.

Can the note be recovered after it disappears?

No. The one-view model is intentionally destructive. After the note is opened and removed, the platform does not provide recovery of the original content.