Comprehensive answers to every Privnote question
Privnote is a free web service at privnote.com for creating self-destructing text notes. Each note generates a unique URL that becomes invalid after being opened once. Notes are encrypted client-side before storage. The service has operated since 2008 and requires no registration.
Notes are encrypted in the browser using AES-256 before upload. The decryption key is embedded in the URL fragment (after #). Since URL fragments are not sent to servers in HTTP requests, Privnote's servers only store encrypted ciphertext. Decryption occurs in the recipient's browser using the key from the URL fragment.
Phishing clone sites impersonate Privnote but intercept note content. The most documented is privnotes.com (with 's'), which modifies note content before delivery. Always use privnote.com (no 's'). Never follow links to Privnote from untrusted sources.
No. Deletion is permanent and irreversible. No backup, no recycle bin, no recovery mechanism exists. Even Privnote's operators cannot recover a destroyed note.
The note is immediately destroyed. You will see the content, but it will be permanently deleted. The recipient will see "note not found." Create a new note and resend. Always copy the link without clicking it.
Yes. All features are free. No premium tiers, no subscription fees. The service has been free since 2008.
No. Text only. For self-destructing file sharing, use Bitwarden Send or One-Time Secret.