Privacy guide

What “first authorized recipient” means in a temporary video

This mode is designed for links meant for one real receiver. It is not self-destruction and it is not DRM, but it adds useful practical control.

What the feature does

First authorized recipient means that the first receiver who loads the video becomes the authorized viewer for that link. After that, other unknown devices can be blocked from accessing the same video.

This is useful when the link is meant for one person and you do not want it to be passed around freely. It is especially relevant for personalized videos, sensitive clips, private support recordings and client material.

What it does not do

  • It does not destroy the video after one view.
  • It does not prove the receiver’s real identity.
  • It does not stop someone from filming the screen.
  • It does not replace legal contracts, DRM or a payment platform.
Clear wording: call it first authorized recipient, not one-time view. The first receiver may still be able to watch the video again while it remains available.

When to enable it

Enable it when you are sending a video to one person and the content should not be casually forwarded. It gives you a practical barrier without adding passwords or accounts for the receiver.

  • Private videos sent by direct message.
  • Personalized videos for a client.
  • Visual proof that should be reviewed by one person.
  • Support recordings with private details.
  • Temporary files that should not travel through group chats.

How to explain it to the receiver

If the receiver may be using several devices, warn them before they open the link. The best message is simple: “Open this from the device where you want to watch it.”

This avoids confusion when someone opens the link on a preview device, then tries to watch it later on another device. The reveal screen also helps because the video is not loaded until the receiver chooses to open it.

FAQ

Is it the same as one-time view?

No. One-time view usually means the video disappears after one viewing. First authorized recipient means the first real receiver is authorized.

Can a VPN bypass it?

Any lightweight web control has limits. The goal is to stop casual forwarding, not to create a forensic security system.

Should I always enable it?

No. If several people need to watch the same video, leave it disabled.