Incriminating text messages need not cause embarrassment for long, thanks to a service that causes awkward notes to 鈥渟elf-destruct鈥� shortly after being read.
The StealthText service from UK company Staellium is only available in the UK. Users must download and install a small software application and must also have a phone capable of accessing WAP internet content.
Cellphone users can purchase a bundle of 10 self-destructing messages for 拢5 by signing up and sending the word STEALTH to the number 80880. A 鈥渢ime-bomb鈥� message can then be sent using the StealthText application.
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The recipient does not need to download any software as they will receive a normal text containing a link to the real message. Once the link has been activated and the message has been viewed, it will disappear after 40 seconds.
Salacious messages
Staellium suggests the service would appeal to anyone wanting to communicate sensitive information. It notes that several celebrities, including footballer David Beckham, have been embarrassed when the contents of salacious text messages have been published in tabloid newspapers, revealing details of their private lives.
鈥淲hether you鈥檙e a celebrity who鈥檚 up to no good or a business executive dealing in sensitive information, the last thing you want is for urgent text messages you鈥檝e sent to fall into the wrong hands,鈥� the company says on the web page for the product.
But the service could also have serious implications, says Guy Kewney, who runs the UK website NewWireless. This is because companies are required to keep records of their employees鈥� communications regarding company business. 鈥淚f current legislation doesn鈥檛 cover this, then it will be rapidly enhanced to do so,鈥� he told 快猫短视频.
To comply with data retention regulations, Staellium says that it keeps a record of all 鈥渟tealth鈥� texts on its servers.
