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Remember That a Message is Forever!

Remember That a Message is Forever!
Softonic Editorial Team

Softonic Editorial Team

  • Updated:

You may not think twice about the messages you send using communication apps, but you should. The truth is, your messages can come back to haunt you in the future, even if you think that they’ve been deleted.

These days, instant messaging using communications apps is lightning fast and convenient, however, the messages you send are often stored on servers as was seen a few years ago when it turned out that messaging service Snapchat was storing supposedly deleted messages.

This is typically done for security purposes so that law enforcement and other officials can retrieve messages if a problem arises in the future.

Screenshots and Cameras

In addition to messaging services storing messages, there are also workarounds for the people to which you send your messages.

Modern smartphones can take screenshots just like computers, so if you send a message to someone in the hopes that that person will delete the message, you might be in for a surprise. All that person has to do is take a screenshot of your message and then it’s theirs to do with what they wish. In addition, someone can use a regular camera or a smartphone camera and simply take a picture of the message on a screen.

Once again, even if you think the message has been deleted, it might still be floating around.

Angry Texting Woman

Messaging Out of Emotion

Another security concern when messaging is emotion. You may end up regretting sending that angry or even threatening message later, but you’ll regret it even more if it comes up in a court case. Likewise, you should never send out messages if you’re intoxicated.

What you’re feeling at the moment may not be how you really feel, and if you send out a salacious message, it could come back to bite you.

Use Security Software

It’s also a good idea to use security software on your computer and on your mobile device to prevent someone from sending you a message that contains a virus.

These days, all kinds of attachments can be weaponized with viruses, malware, spyware, and more. When you open one of these attachments, your PC or mobile device can be taken over or even left unusable. When you have security software installed, it will scan any attachments before they have a chance to infect your PC or device.

There are plenty of free security options out there that work just as well as paid options, so take a look around to find the program that works best for your specific needs.

Softonic Editorial Team

Softonic Editorial Team

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