SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROTECTING MESSAGES UTILIZING A HIDDEN RESTRICTION MECHANISM

摘要

A computing device executing an instant messaging application receives a selection from a user specifying at least one instant message conversation record to hide from view. The selected conversation record is hidden from view in response to occurrence of an event of a first type. In response to the occurrence of an event of a second type, a timer hidden from the user is launched. An unlock procedure is received from the user, where the user enters the unlock procedure. In response to the entered unlock procedure matching a predetermined unlock procedure prior to expiration of the timer, the corresponding hidden conversation record is made viewable and is accessible again by the user.

主权项

1. A method implemented in a computing device executing an instant messaging application, comprising:
receiving a selection from a user specifying at least one instant message conversation record to hide from view; hiding the selected at least one conversation record from view responsive to occurrence of an event of a first type; responsive to occurrence of an event of a second type, launching a timer, the timer being hidden from the user; receiving an unlock procedure from the user, wherein the user enters the unlock procedure; and responsive to the entered unlock procedure matching a predetermined unlock procedure prior to expiration of the timer, causing the corresponding hidden conversation record to be viewable and accessible by the user.