The complete, expert-written guide to Privnote — the world's most trusted self-destructing note service. Learn every feature, master every setting, and protect every message.
Privnote has helped millions of people share sensitive information safely since 2008. Our guide covers everything from basic usage to advanced encryption settings — written for real users, not just tech experts.
Privnote is a free, browser-based service that allows anyone to compose a text message and receive a unique, one-time-use link. When the recipient opens that link, they read the message — and the moment they do, the note is permanently and irreversibly deleted from Privnote's servers.
Unlike email, messaging apps, or cloud notes, Privnote leaves no persistent copy of your message anywhere. The note exists only for the brief window between creation and first reading. Once read, it is gone — not archived, not recoverable, not accessible to anyone, including Privnote's own team.
This makes Privnote ideal for sharing passwords, sensitive personal information, confidential business instructions, one-time codes, or any content you want to communicate without creating a permanent digital record.
Three simple steps stand between you and perfectly private communication. No account. No software. No complexity.
Beyond the basics, Privnote offers a powerful set of options that give you precise control over how your notes are shared and when they expire.
Privnote serves a remarkably wide range of users, from everyday individuals to security professionals. Here are the most common real-world applications.
Share temporary passwords, server credentials, API keys, and access tokens without leaving them in email threads or chat logs. Privnote ensures credentials vanish after the recipient retrieves them.
Send confidential business information, contract details, financial figures, or strategic instructions to colleagues without creating a permanent record in corporate email systems.
Communicate sensitive source information, share confidential documents, or exchange tips without leaving a digital trail that could compromise sources or ongoing investigations.
Safely onboard new team members by sharing initial credentials, environment variables, and configuration secrets through self-destructing notes rather than insecure Slack messages or emails.
Quick answers to the questions we hear most often about Privnote.
Our complete guide walks you through every feature, every setting, and every best practice. Whether you're a first-time user or looking to use Privnote more effectively, we have everything you need.