This Message Will Self-Destruct in 40 Seconds!

This isn't a quote from a James bond movie (actually it very well could be, but that's not the point here). It is all about a recently launched text-messaging service that will automatically delete instant messages after recipients read them.

The StealthText technology, created by the Staellium UK Company is promoted as a very reliable and secure solution for those employers who want to make sure the messages they send will not be "stolen" afterwards by outsiders. The confidentiality of these messages is now secured by simply... erasing them automatically after a certain period of time. The advantage of this solution is obvious as it makes sure this information will leave no traces in order to be tracked down. The obvious downfall is that the recipient will have a very limited amount of time to read and memorize the content of the message.

Since many business owners suffered great losses because of intercepted or stolen messages, this technology represents a very tempting offer and should attract many customers soon. According to Carole Barnum, CEO and cofounder of Staellium UK, StealthText users can breathe a sigh of relief 40 seconds after sending a message.

StealthText works only on mobile phones compatible with the Wireless Application Protocol (WAP), which most phones today recognize. Only the sender needs to have downloaded the StealthText applet. Recipients receive a text notification with the sender's name and a link to the message.