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Security and Privacy Guide for Time-Locked Messages

Security and privacy are fundamental to time-locked messaging. When you trust UnlockLater.com with your future communications, you deserve to understand exactly how your messages are protected.

Our Security Architecture

End-to-End Protection

Your messages are secured from creation to revelation:

  • Encryption at rest: Messages are encrypted when stored in our database
  • Secure transmission: All communications use HTTPS encryption
  • Time-based access control: Messages remain inaccessible until their scheduled time
  • Automatic deletion: Messages are permanently removed after expiration

Password Protection

Add an extra security layer with optional passwords:

  • Bcrypt hashing: Passwords are hashed using industry-standard bcrypt
  • No plain text storage: We never store your passwords in readable form
  • Brute force protection: Multiple failed attempts trigger security measures
  • Password complexity: We recommend strong, unique passwords for sensitive content

Privacy Principles

Data Minimization

We collect only what's necessary:

  • No unnecessary tracking: We don't track users across other websites
  • Minimal personal information: Only basic profile data for authenticated users
  • Anonymous options: Create messages without any account registration
  • Automatic cleanup: Personal data is removed according to retention policies

Zero Knowledge Architecture

Your content remains private:

  • No content scanning: We never read or analyze your message content
  • Employee access restrictions: Staff cannot access message content
  • No data mining: Your messages aren't used for advertising or analytics
  • Encryption keys: Message encryption protects against unauthorized access

User Control Features

View Limits

Control message accessibility:

  • Single view: Message disappears after first access
  • Multiple views: Set specific view counts before expiration
  • Time-based expiry: Messages expire after set durations
  • Manual deletion: Delete messages early if needed

Anonymous Messaging

Maximum privacy options:

  • No registration required: Send messages without creating accounts
  • No personal information: Anonymous messages don't collect user data
  • IP address handling: Connection data is automatically purged
  • Untraceable delivery: Recipients can't identify anonymous senders

Best Practices for Users

Creating Secure Messages

Choose Strong Passwords

  • Use unique passwords for each message
  • Combine letters, numbers, and symbols
  • Avoid personal information
  • Consider using a password manager

Set Appropriate View Limits

  • Single view for highly sensitive content
  • Multiple views for information that may need reference
  • Consider recipient needs and technical literacy
  • Test links before sharing

Plan Your Timing

  • Double-check dates and times
  • Consider time zones for recipients
  • Allow buffer time for important messages
  • Test with shorter durations first

Sharing Messages Safely

Secure Distribution

  • Share links through encrypted channels when possible
  • Avoid posting links on public social media
  • Consider separate delivery of passwords
  • Verify recipient contact information

Recipient Communication

  • Explain how time-locked messages work
  • Provide clear instructions for access
  • Include backup contact methods
  • Set expectations for timing

Technical Security Measures

Infrastructure Protection

  • Secure hosting: Messages stored on protected servers
  • Regular backups: Data protection against hardware failures
  • Security monitoring: 24/7 monitoring for suspicious activity
  • Update management: Regular security patches and updates

Database Security

  • Access controls: Strict limitations on database access
  • Audit logging: All access attempts are logged and monitored
  • Encryption: Database-level encryption for all stored data
  • Isolation: User data is logically separated and protected

Compliance and Standards

Industry Standards

We follow established security practices:

  • HTTPS everywhere: All communications encrypted in transit
  • Password security: Industry-standard hashing algorithms
  • Data retention: Clear policies for data storage and deletion
  • Regular audits: Ongoing security assessments and improvements

Transparency

We're committed to openness about our practices:

  • Clear privacy policy: Detailed explanation of data handling
  • Security documentation: Public information about our protections
  • Incident reporting: Prompt notification of any security issues
  • Regular updates: Ongoing communication about security improvements

Reporting Security Issues

If you discover a security vulnerability:

  1. Don't test further - Stop investigating to avoid potential damage
  2. Contact us immediately - Email security concerns to our team
  3. Provide details - Include steps to reproduce the issue
  4. Maintain confidentiality - Don't share details publicly until resolved

Understanding Limitations

What We Can't Protect Against

  • Recipient device security: Messages are only as secure as the recipient's device
  • Social engineering: Users sharing passwords or links inappropriately
  • Physical access: Someone with access to the recipient's device and password
  • User error: Accidentally sharing sensitive information

Shared Responsibility

Security is a partnership between us and our users:

  • We provide: Secure infrastructure, encryption, and access controls
  • You provide: Strong passwords, secure sharing practices, and device security
  • Together: We create a robust security environment for your messages

Ready to create your first secure time-locked message? Get started now!

Questions about security or privacy? Contact our support team for detailed answers about our protection measures.