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Edit and delete your messages

Instead of a centralized server, Status uses a peer-to-peer network to store and distribute messages. When you edit or delete a message, the peer-to-peer network distributes your changes to other users running the Status app.

In some cases, users may still see your original messages, even after you edit or delete them. For example, some users can:

  • Run an out-of-date version of the Status app that isn't fully compatible with the peer-to-peer network features.
  • Run a custom build of the Status app that doesn't support message editing and deletion by choice.
  • Disconnect from the network before receiving your latest changes.

Note

Be careful with what you share, especially in communities. Once published to the network, what you shared may still remain on someone's device even if you choose to delete it later.

What to expect

  • You can edit and delete your Status messages with no time limitations.
  • You can only edit text messages. If you want to change a message that contains media content, consider deleting and re-sending it.
  • Once you edit a message, a permanent note appears next to your message saying it was edited.
  • In communities and group chats, you can hide messages you don't want to see with Delete for me. Everyone else will still be able to see this message.
  • To delete a message for everyone, select Delete for everyone. You can only delete your own messages.

Edit your messages

  1. Open the community, DM chat or group chat with the message you want to delete.
  2. Long press this message.
  3. Select Edit message.
  4. Make your changes.
  5. Tap Send to publish your changes.
  1. Open the community, DM chat or group chat with the message you want to delete.
  2. Hover over your message and click Edit.
  3. Make your changes and click Save.

Delete your messages

  1. Open the community, DM chat or group chat with the message you want to delete.
  2. Long press this message.
  3. Select Delete Message.
  1. Open the community channel, DM chat or group chat with the message you want to delete.
  2. Hover over your message and click Delete.
  3. Click Confirm to delete your message. You can also check the Do not show this again box to delete messages without confirmation in future.