How to Use View Once on WhatsApp: Send Self-Destructing Photos & Videos
How to Use View Once on WhatsApp: Send Self-Destructing Photos & Videos
Share photos or videos that disappear after one view. Perfect for one-time passwords, confidential info, or private moments.
Open chat → Attach photo/video → Tap the “1” icon → Send. Media disappears after one view. Not screenshot-proof — use for trusted contacts only.
What Is View Once on WhatsApp?
View Once allows you to send photos or videos that can only be opened once before they disappear forever. After the recipient views the media, it’s deleted automatically from the chat.
Think of it like Snapchat-style content — but inside WhatsApp’s encrypted system. This is especially useful for temporary content you don’t want lingering in chat history.
When to Use View Once
- Sharing sensitive documents or screenshots
- Sending temporary passwords or OTPs
- Showing one-time updates (e.g., location photo)
- Personal photos you don’t want saved
View Once is not screenshot-proof. Users often search “how to take screenshot on WhatsApp View Once Android” — and yes, it’s possible. WhatsApp doesn’t block or notify about screenshots.
How to Send a View Once Photo or Video
On Android & iPhone:
- Open a chat
- Tap the camera icon or attach media
- Select your photo/video
- Tap the [1] icon near the send button (this enables View Once)
- Tap Send
The recipient will see: “Photo/Video – View Once.” After they open it, the message will show: “Opened” and cannot be viewed again.
Here’s what enabling View Once looks like on-screen: [Screenshot showing WhatsApp camera with ‘1’ icon highlighted before sending media]
Privacy & Limitations
- Media can’t be forwarded, saved, or starred
- It disappears after one view or 14 days (whichever comes first)
- If the user has read receipts off, you won’t know if it’s been viewed
- Screenshots can still be taken (no protection)
Combine View Once with Disappearing Messages and Chat Lock for multi-layered privacy.
Real-World Example: One-Time Password Sharing
Scenario: A business sends one-time login credentials to a client via WhatsApp.
Solution: They use View Once to share the password securely. Once it’s opened, it’s gone — reducing the risk of re-sharing or misuse.
“We use View Once for every client password exchange — it gives both parties peace of mind.” — Digital Agency Manager
View Once vs Disappearing Messages
| Feature | View Once | Disappearing Messages |
|---|---|---|
| Deletes after 1 view | Yes | No |
| Auto-delete timeframe | After view | 24 hrs, 7 or 90 days |
| Screenshot protection | No | No |
| Applies to media only | Yes | No (text + media) |
FAQ: View Once on WhatsApp
Can I view a View Once photo again?
No — once viewed, it’s gone and cannot be re-opened.
Can someone screenshot it?
Yes — WhatsApp does not block or notify about screenshots. Many users search “how to take screenshot on WhatsApp View Once Android”, so keep this risk in mind.
Can I set View Once as default?
No — it must be manually enabled for each media item.
Can I use it in group chats?
Yes — but once one member opens it, it disappears for everyone.
Final Thoughts
View Once is a powerful privacy tool when used smartly — especially for temporary, sensitive content. Just remember, it’s not foolproof. Always consider the risk of screenshots and misuse.
Looking to upgrade your WhatsApp privacy game? Check out our guides on:
- WhatsApp Disappearing Messages
- How to Lock Chats on WhatsApp
- Best Privacy Settings for WhatsApp 2026
Author: Ashaye Gbenga
Tech Evangelist SEO | Empowering users through secure and smart messaging tools