Unsend a Text Message Android A Comprehensive Guide and Exploration

Unsend a text message android – a phrase that whispers of second chances and digital do-overs, a concept that has become increasingly relevant in our fast-paced, message-laden world. Imagine the scenarios: a hastily typed message, a regrettable emoji, or a private thought mistakenly sent to the wrong recipient. The desire to retract these digital footprints is understandable, and it has spawned a quest for a solution, a feature, or an app that can undo the sent.

This journey will explore the nuances of this desire, navigating the limitations of the Android operating system and delving into the third-party apps that promise to fulfill this digital wish.

This comprehensive guide dives deep into the realities of message retraction on Android. We will uncover the native capabilities, or lack thereof, of the standard Android experience. We’ll then venture into the realm of third-party applications, scrutinizing their functionalities, limitations, and the security implications that come with them. Moreover, we’ll examine the technical aspects, from message delivery reports to the recipient’s online status, and their influence on the success or failure of unsend attempts.

Prepare to embark on a journey that balances practicality with the legal and ethical dimensions, ensuring you are equipped with the knowledge to navigate the digital landscape responsibly.

Table of Contents

Native Android Features (or Lack Thereof)

Android, the ubiquitous operating system powering billions of devices worldwide, presents a unique landscape regarding message retraction. While its open-source nature fosters innovation and customization, it also means the native experience can vary significantly depending on the manufacturer and the specific messaging application in use. Understanding the core functionality provided by “stock” Android is key to grasping the nuances of unsending messages on the platform.

Absence of a Native Unsend Feature

The straightforward answer is that

stock* Android, the Android experience as Google intended it without any manufacturer modifications or third-party applications, does
not* offer a native “unsend” feature. This means that if you’re using the default messaging app (often simply called “Messages” or “Android Messages”), once you hit send, the message is sent. There’s no built-in mechanism to retract or delete it from the recipient’s device. This is a crucial distinction and a significant difference from other platforms.

Limitations in Message Retraction Capabilities

The core messaging application bundled with Android, as designed by Google, lacks the functionality to recall or retract sent messages. However, the user experience surrounding message retraction is heavily influenced by the messaging app in use.

Default Messaging App (Google Messages): As mentioned, this app does not have an unsend feature. Once sent, the message is delivered, and there is no native way to retrieve it. This simplicity is both a strength and a weakness, offering a straightforward experience but lacking advanced features.
Manufacturer-Specific Apps: Many Android manufacturers, such as Samsung, Xiaomi, and others, often include their own pre-installed messaging apps. Some of these apps might incorporate features that go beyond the basic Google Messages functionality. These features can include message scheduling, and sometimes, even limited message recall options, though this is rare and often depends on the recipient also using the same manufacturer’s app.
SMS/MMS Protocol Limitations: The fundamental nature of SMS/MMS (Short Message Service/Multimedia Messaging Service) presents another significant hurdle. These protocols were not designed with message retraction in mind. Once a message is sent via SMS/MMS, it’s essentially broadcast to the mobile network, making it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to intercept and retract it before it reaches the recipient’s device.
Third-Party App Reliance: The lack of native unsend functionality has fueled the popularity of third-party messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal. These apps often incorporate robust unsend features, allowing users to retract messages within a specified time frame.

Comparative Analysis of Unsend Features Across Operating Systems

The experience of unsending a message on Android contrasts sharply with platforms like iMessage on iOS, which provides a native unsend function. The difference in user experience highlights the varying approaches to messaging and user control.

iOS (iMessage): iMessage, Apple’s proprietary messaging service, offers a built-in unsend feature. Users can retract messages within a certain timeframe after sending them. The message is removed from the recipient’s device if they are also using iMessage. This provides a level of control and forgiveness that is absent in stock Android. This feature directly impacts user experience, allowing for quick corrections of typos or unintentional sends.

The user experience is enhanced by this functionality, creating a sense of control over communication.
Other Messaging Platforms (WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal): These cross-platform messaging apps, available on both Android and iOS, typically provide unsend features. The implementation and time limits for retraction may vary, but the core functionality is the same: the sender can remove the message from the recipient’s view. These apps prioritize user control over message content, offering a more flexible messaging experience. The user experience is generally more forgiving, as it accommodates the human element of making mistakes.
User Perception and Expectations: The availability of unsend features on other platforms has shaped user expectations. Android users, accustomed to these features in other apps, might perceive the lack of a native unsend function as a deficiency in the stock Android experience. This can lead to frustration and a preference for third-party messaging apps.

Methods and Procedures for Attempting Message Retraction

The digital landscape, while offering unparalleled convenience in communication, also presents opportunities for regrettable missteps. Fortunately, the ability to retract a message, or at least attempt to, has become a sought-after feature. While native Android doesn’t offer this directly, several third-party applications provide varying degrees of success in this endeavor.It’s crucial to understand that the effectiveness of message retraction is highly dependent on both the app used and the recipient’s actions.

The following sections will detail the methods, outcomes, and alternative strategies for attempting to ‘unsend’ a text.

Step-by-step Procedures for Attempting to ‘Unsend’ a Message Using Various Third-Party Apps

The procedures for message retraction differ significantly depending on the app employed. Each app operates with its own unique set of protocols and limitations. Let’s examine a few popular options and their corresponding steps.For apps that support message retraction, the process generally follows these steps:

App Selection: Choose an app known for its message retraction capabilities, such as Signal or Telegram. These apps often prioritize privacy and offer features not found in standard SMS applications.
Message Composition: Compose your message as usual within the chosen app. Ensure you are using the app’s messaging service and not a standard SMS service if retraction is desired.
Message Sending: Send the message to the intended recipient.
Retraction Initiation: Locate the sent message within the chat history.
Retraction Action: Initiate the retraction process. This typically involves a long press on the message, followed by selecting an “unsend,” “recall,” or similar option from a menu. The exact wording varies depending on the app.
Confirmation (if applicable): Some apps may require confirmation before proceeding with the retraction. This is to prevent accidental unsending.
Notification (recipient): Observe the recipient’s notification. This is discussed in detail in the following section.

What Happens When a User Attempts to Retract a Message

When a user attempts to retract a message, the recipient’s experience is app-dependent, and the outcome varies.The recipient might see one of several outcomes:

Successful Retraction: In the best-case scenario, the message disappears from the recipient’s view. This is most common in apps designed specifically for privacy and message control. However, the message might be replaced with a placeholder, such as “This message was retracted.”
Notification of Retraction: The recipient receives a notification indicating that the message was retracted. The notification’s wording varies. For instance, in Signal, the notification would read “You deleted a message.”
Partial Retraction: Some apps might only retract the message from the app itself, leaving traces on the recipient’s device through notifications or other forms of data logging.
No Retraction: In cases where the recipient is using an older version of the app or has the feature disabled, the message may remain visible. The retraction attempt will likely be unsuccessful.

Detail Potential Workarounds or Alternative Actions if the ‘Unsend’ Feature Fails

If the ‘unsend’ feature fails, several alternative actions can mitigate the impact of the sent message. These actions range from immediate apologies to more elaborate damage control strategies.Here are some alternative approaches:

Immediate Apology: Send a follow-up message apologizing for the original message. Be sincere and acknowledge the potential for misinterpretation or offense.
Contextual Explanation: Provide context for the original message to clarify its intent. This can help prevent misunderstandings and mitigate any negative reactions.
Direct Communication: If possible, contact the recipient directly through a different communication channel (phone call, face-to-face) to explain the situation and express regret. This shows a commitment to resolving the issue.
Acceptance and Acknowledgment: Accept the consequences of the message and avoid making excuses. Taking responsibility can sometimes diffuse a potentially negative situation.
Ignore the Message (With Caution): In certain cases, ignoring the message may be an option, but this is risky and depends on the message’s content and the relationship with the recipient. Consider the potential for escalation before choosing this approach.
Prevent Future Incidents: Review and adjust communication habits to avoid similar situations in the future. This includes careful proofreading, avoiding emotionally charged messages, and using features like self-destructing messages where appropriate.

Understanding Message Delivery and Recipient Status

The quest to reclaim a sent text message hinges significantly on understanding the message’s journey and the recipient’s digital presence. Factors like delivery reports, online status, and read receipts create a complex web of information that dictates the feasibility of any unsend attempt. Navigating these elements is crucial for anyone hoping to erase their digital footprint, even temporarily.

Message Delivery Reports and Retraction Success, Unsend a text message android

Delivery reports serve as the digital breadcrumbs, providing insight into the message’s journey. These reports are generated by the messaging service and provide critical clues regarding the status of your message.The significance of these reports is multifaceted:

Delivered: A “Delivered” status confirms the message has successfully reached the recipient’s device. This typically signifies that the message is now residing on their device, making retraction significantly more difficult. Retraction success rates decrease dramatically once a message is delivered.
Read: The “Read” status indicates the recipient has opened and viewed the message. At this point, any unsend attempt becomes largely futile, as the content has already been consumed. This emphasizes the critical importance of speed in any retraction effort.
Pending/Sending: A “Pending” or “Sending” status means the message is still in transit. This is the optimal window for attempting retraction, as the message may not have been fully delivered or even processed by the recipient’s device yet. It represents the best opportunity for a successful unsend.
Failed: A “Failed” status indicates the message could not be delivered, perhaps due to a network issue, an invalid number, or the recipient being unreachable. In this case, retraction is moot, as the message never reached its destination.

Recipient Online Status and Retraction Feasibility

The recipient’s online status offers another crucial piece of the puzzle. Their current activity on the messaging platform can significantly influence the chances of a successful unsend.Understanding the influence of online presence is key:

Online: If the recipient is online, the message is likely to be delivered and potentially read almost immediately. This reduces the window of opportunity for retraction. Speed is of the essence in this scenario.
Offline: When the recipient is offline, the message is held by the messaging service until they come online. This presents a slightly longer window for a potential unsend, as the message has not yet been delivered to their device.
Last Seen: Many messaging apps display the “last seen” status, providing an indication of when the recipient was last active. This information can help estimate when the message might be read, and thus, when the window for retraction closes. For example, if the recipient was “last seen” 5 minutes ago and you send a message, you have a limited time to attempt retraction before they might check their phone.

The Role of Read Receipts in the Unsend Process

Read receipts are a double-edged sword in the context of message retraction. They provide immediate feedback on whether the recipient has viewed the message, but they also severely limit the chances of successful retraction.Read receipts function in a crucial role:

Immediate Feedback: Read receipts immediately notify the sender when a message has been read. This rapid feedback is helpful in determining the success of any unsend attempt. If the read receipt appears before any retraction action is taken, the attempt is likely unsuccessful.
Closing the Window: The presence of a read receipt effectively closes the window for successful retraction. Once the recipient has read the message, the content is in their possession, and the unsend process becomes futile.
Impact on Retraction Efforts: The existence of read receipts forces the sender to act swiftly. Any unsend attempts must occur before the recipient reads the message to have any chance of success. This underscores the need for immediate action when attempting to retract a message.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Attempting to retract a text message, especially in the digital age, presents a complex web of legal and ethical challenges. The ephemeral nature of digital communication often clashes with the permanence implied by legal documentation and ethical standards. This section delves into these intricacies, providing a comprehensive overview of the potential pitfalls and responsibilities associated with using ‘unsend’ features.

Legal Implications of Message Retraction

The law views digital communication with increasing scrutiny, and attempts to retract messages can have significant legal ramifications. The admissibility of retracted messages as evidence, the potential for obstruction of justice, and the implications in specific legal contexts like employment or family law are all areas of concern.The following points highlight the legal considerations:

Admissibility of Retracted Messages as Evidence: Whether a retracted message is admissible in court depends on several factors, including the specific jurisdiction, the nature of the evidence, and the context of the case. In some cases, the attempt to retract a message can be interpreted as an admission of guilt or an attempt to conceal information, potentially making the retracted message and any related metadata admissible.

For example, in a fraud case, if a defendant sends a text message admitting to a fraudulent scheme and then attempts to retract it, the prosecution could argue that the retraction itself is evidence of the defendant’s consciousness of guilt.
Obstruction of Justice: In certain situations, attempting to retract a message can be construed as obstruction of justice, particularly if the message contains evidence relevant to an ongoing investigation or legal proceeding. Deleting or attempting to delete evidence, including text messages, can be a crime, leading to severe penalties.
Imagine a scenario where a company is under investigation for financial malfeasance.

If an employee sends a text message detailing illegal activities and then attempts to retract it to prevent it from being discovered, this action could be considered obstruction of justice.
Specific Legal Contexts: The legal implications of message retraction vary depending on the context. In employment law, retracted messages might be relevant in cases of harassment or discrimination. In family law, they could be crucial in divorce or child custody proceedings.
Consider a situation where an employee sends a harassing text message to a colleague and then attempts to retract it.

The retracted message, along with any evidence of the attempt to retract it, could be used as evidence in a lawsuit for workplace harassment.

Ethical Considerations of ‘Unsend’ Features

Beyond legal ramifications, using ‘unsend’ features raises important ethical questions concerning transparency, honesty, and the potential for manipulation. The ability to erase or alter one’s digital footprint carries a significant responsibility.The following points detail the ethical considerations:

Transparency and Honesty: The core ethical principle at stake is transparency. Using ‘unsend’ features without the recipient’s knowledge or consent can undermine the trust inherent in communication. Honesty requires that messages, once sent, remain accessible, unless both parties agree to their removal.
Imagine a situation where a person sends a message expressing anger or frustration and then uses ‘unsend’ to remove it.

If the recipient later confronts the sender about the issue, the sender might deny ever sending the message, leading to a breakdown in trust and communication.
Potential for Manipulation: ‘Unsend’ features can be used to manipulate others by selectively removing messages that might reveal the sender’s true intentions or actions. This can be particularly problematic in relationships, business dealings, or political discourse.
Consider a scenario where a politician sends a message to a lobbyist promising support for a controversial bill. If the politician later decides to change their stance and uses ‘unsend’ to remove the message, it could be seen as an attempt to deceive the public and avoid accountability.
Responsibility and Accountability: The use of ‘unsend’ features shifts the responsibility for communication. Senders must be mindful of the content they send, understanding that they have the ability to alter their message after it has been received. This creates a need for greater personal accountability.
A journalist might send a draft article to a source for fact-checking and then ‘unsend’ the message if they realize that it contains sensitive information.

While this might be a convenient way to manage information, it also removes the source’s ability to review and verify the original draft, potentially leading to inaccuracies or misunderstandings.

Scenarios Where ‘Unsend’ is Inappropriate or Unethical

Certain situations render the use of ‘unsend’ features particularly inappropriate or unethical. These include cases involving sensitive information, legal proceedings, or any situation where transparency is paramount.Here are some examples of inappropriate or unethical use of ‘unsend’:

Sharing Sensitive Information: Retracting messages containing sensitive personal data, financial information, or confidential business details is unethical, especially if the recipient has already read the message or taken action based on its contents.
Suppose an employee accidentally sends an email containing a list of social security numbers and bank account details. Even if the employee attempts to retract the message, the damage is already done.

The recipient might have already viewed the information, and the attempt to retract it doesn’t undo the breach of privacy.
Legal or Formal Communication: In any legal or formal communication, such as official business correspondence or communications related to a legal case, using ‘unsend’ is generally inappropriate. It can create doubt about the integrity of the communication and raise questions about the sender’s intentions.
Imagine a lawyer sends a text message to a client providing legal advice. If the lawyer later attempts to retract the message, it could be interpreted as an attempt to alter the legal record or avoid accountability for the advice given.
Situations Involving Harassment or Threats: Attempting to retract messages containing threats, harassment, or any form of abusive language is ethically questionable and potentially illegal. It is crucial to preserve such messages as evidence if needed.
If a person sends a threatening message to another person and then uses ‘unsend’, it doesn’t erase the fact that the threat was made.

The recipient might have taken screenshots or saved the message, and the attempt to retract it can be used as evidence in a legal case.
Misleading or Deceptive Communication: Using ‘unsend’ to alter the record of a conversation, especially if it involves deception or misrepresentation, is unethical. This can undermine trust and damage relationships.
Suppose a salesperson sends a text message to a customer promising a specific discount. If the salesperson later retracts the message after the customer agrees to the purchase, it could be seen as a form of bait-and-switch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Dealing with the digital world of text messaging, we often encounter situations where we wish we could rewind time. Unfortunately, the “unsend” functionality on Android, or lack thereof, can be a source of frustration. Understanding and troubleshooting the common hiccups users experience is crucial for navigating these situations effectively.

‘Unsend’ Feature Not Working

The most disheartening scenario is when the “unsend” feature fails to function as expected. Several factors can contribute to this issue, demanding careful examination.

Here are some of the key reasons why the ‘unsend’ feature might be malfunctioning:

App Compatibility: Not all messaging apps on Android offer an “unsend” feature. Ensure the app you are using, like Signal or Telegram, explicitly supports message retraction. If you’re using the standard Android Messages app (or Google Messages), it doesn’t have an unsend feature.
Version Updates: Outdated app versions may lack the necessary features or contain bugs that prevent the “unsend” functionality from working correctly. Regularly updating your messaging app is essential.
Network Connectivity: A stable internet connection is vital for the “unsend” feature to work. If your device loses connection during the retraction process, the message might still be delivered.
Recipient’s App: The recipient must also be using a messaging app that supports the “unsend” feature, and their app version must be compatible. If the recipient uses an older version or a different app, the “unsend” might not work.
Time Limits: Many apps impose a time limit on how long you have to “unsend” a message. If you exceed this limit, the option to retract the message will no longer be available. This time limit varies depending on the messaging app.

Messages Still Being Visible

Even when you attempt to retract a message, there are instances where the message remains visible to the recipient. This situation can be particularly perplexing.

Several scenarios can explain why a retracted message may still be visible:

Recipient Read the Message: If the recipient has already read the message before you attempted to retract it, the “unsend” feature may not be able to remove the message from their device.
Notification Received: The recipient might have seen the message in a notification before you could retract it. Notifications often display a preview of the message.
Caching Issues: In some cases, the recipient’s device or the messaging app might have cached the message. This means the message is stored locally, and even if the server removes it, the recipient might still see it.
App Glitches: Occasionally, the app itself might be experiencing a temporary glitch that prevents the retraction from fully processing on the recipient’s end.

Recipient Notifications

Sometimes, even if you successfully “unsend” a message, the recipient might still receive a notification about the message. This can defeat the purpose of the feature.

Here’s why a recipient might still get a notification about a retracted message:

Notification Previews: Most messaging apps show a preview of the message in the notification. If the notification arrived on the recipient’s device before the message was retracted, they would have seen the message content.
Network Delays: There might be a slight delay in the network, and the notification could have been delivered before the “unsend” command was fully processed.
App-Specific Behavior: Some messaging apps may handle notifications differently. Even if the message is retracted, the notification might still be displayed, perhaps with a generic message like “Message deleted.”

Solutions to Resolve Technical Difficulties

Addressing these issues requires a systematic approach, involving both technical troubleshooting and user behavior adjustments.

Here’s how to resolve technical difficulties when attempting to ‘unsend’ a text message:

App Updates: Regularly check for updates for your messaging app. Developers often release updates that fix bugs and improve functionality, including the “unsend” feature. Go to the Google Play Store, search for your messaging app (Signal, Telegram, etc.), and tap “Update” if an update is available.
Network Troubleshooting: Ensure you have a stable internet connection. Try switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data to see if that resolves the issue. Restarting your router or mobile device can also help.
App Conflicts: Sometimes, other apps on your device can interfere with the messaging app. Try closing other apps running in the background. If the problem persists, consider uninstalling recently installed apps to see if one of them is causing the conflict.
Clear Cache and Data: If the “unsend” feature still isn’t working, try clearing the cache and data for the messaging app. Go to your device’s settings, find the app in the app list, and select “Storage.” Then, tap “Clear Cache” and “Clear Data.” Note that clearing data may delete your message history, so back up your messages if necessary.
Restart the App and Device: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches. Close the messaging app and reopen it. If the problem persists, restart your entire device.
Contact Support: If you’ve tried all the above steps and the “unsend” feature still isn’t working, contact the messaging app’s support team. They may be able to provide specific troubleshooting steps or inform you of any known issues.

Security and Privacy Best Practices: Unsend A Text Message Android

Navigating the digital landscape of messaging demands a proactive approach to safeguard your personal information. Employing robust security measures and adopting mindful habits are crucial for protecting your privacy while utilizing ‘unsend’ features or messaging applications in general. This ensures your communications remain confidential and secure, mitigating the risks of unauthorized access or data breaches.

Protecting Privacy and Security in Messaging

Your digital footprint is more significant than ever. It’s imperative to fortify your messaging practices to shield yourself from potential threats. By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce your vulnerability to privacy breaches and security compromises.

Enable End-to-End Encryption: Choose messaging apps that offer end-to-end encryption. This ensures that only you and the recipient can read the messages, as the encryption keys are held only on your devices. Examples include Signal, WhatsApp, and Telegram (for secret chats). This is the cornerstone of secure messaging.
Use Strong Passwords and Authentication: Employ strong, unique passwords for your messaging accounts and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible. 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a verification code, usually sent to your phone or email, in addition to your password. This makes it significantly harder for unauthorized individuals to access your account.
Be Wary of Phishing Attempts: Be cautious of suspicious links, attachments, and requests for personal information. Phishing attacks often try to trick you into revealing sensitive data. Always verify the sender’s identity before clicking on links or providing information.
Regularly Update Your Apps: Keep your messaging apps updated to the latest versions. Updates often include security patches that address vulnerabilities. This is like regularly servicing your car; it keeps everything running smoothly and securely.
Review Privacy Settings: Familiarize yourself with the privacy settings of your messaging apps and adjust them to your comfort level. You can often control who can see your profile information, when you were last online, and other details. Take the time to understand these settings and customize them accordingly.
Use a VPN on Public Wi-Fi: When using public Wi-Fi networks, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, protecting your data from potential eavesdropping on unsecured networks.
Be Mindful of Metadata: Understand that even with end-to-end encryption, metadata (information about your messages, such as who you’re messaging, when, and for how long) can still be collected. Be aware of the potential implications of this data.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter any suspicious behavior, such as spam messages or unusual account activity, report it to the messaging app provider immediately.

Choosing Secure Messaging Apps

Selecting a secure messaging app involves evaluating several key factors to ensure your communications remain private and protected. Not all messaging apps are created equal; some prioritize security more than others.

End-to-End Encryption: The most critical feature. Ensure the app uses end-to-end encryption by default, not as an optional setting. This means your messages are scrambled in a way that only the intended recipient can decipher them.
Open-Source Code: Apps with open-source code allow security experts to review the code for vulnerabilities, enhancing transparency and trust. This can allow the community to audit the app’s security practices.
Independent Security Audits: Look for apps that have undergone independent security audits. These audits verify the app’s security claims and identify potential weaknesses.
Privacy Policy: Carefully review the app’s privacy policy to understand how your data is collected, used, and shared. Choose apps with transparent and user-friendly privacy policies.
Reputation and Track Record: Research the app’s reputation and track record. Look for apps with a strong history of prioritizing user privacy and security.
Features and Functionality: Consider the features offered by the app. Some apps offer additional security features, such as disappearing messages or screenshot protection.
User Base and Network Effect: While security is paramount, consider the app’s user base. If you want to communicate with a wide range of people, the app must be accessible to them.

Preventing Unintended Message Sends

Accidental message sends can lead to embarrassing situations or even data breaches. Several practices can minimize the likelihood of sending a message prematurely or to the wrong recipient.

Double-Check Recipients: Before sending a message, always double-check the recipient’s name or number to ensure you are sending it to the correct person. This is especially important in group chats.
Use Drafts: Utilize the draft feature to compose your messages and review them before sending. This gives you time to reflect on the content and make any necessary changes.
Delay Send Option: Some messaging apps offer a “delay send” feature, allowing you to set a delay before the message is sent. This provides a brief window to cancel the message if needed.
Proofread Messages: Always proofread your messages for typos, grammatical errors, and potentially sensitive information before sending them. A quick review can prevent unintended content from being shared.
Be Mindful of Auto-Complete: Be aware of the auto-complete feature, which can sometimes suggest incorrect recipients or words. Pay attention to these suggestions and verify their accuracy.
Use a “Confirmation” Feature: Some apps allow you to require a confirmation before sending a message. This adds an extra step to prevent accidental sends.
Disable Notifications When Typing: Turn off notifications that might pop up while you are typing, which could distract you and lead to accidental sends.
Practice Mindfulness: Pay attention to what you are doing. Avoid messaging while distracted or multitasking.