A one way email is a temporary or ephemeral email address that allows you to receive emails but not reply or send them. It's intended for one-time usage, particularly when you only need to get a verification code, confirmation email, or other short notifications.
These email addresses are generated automatically and do not require a registration. Once made, they are only available for a short period or until manually deleted.
Is It Safe to Use?
One-way email addresses are OK for temporary usage, however they should not be used for crucial services like:
- Bank or financial accounts
- Social media profiles you wish to maintain
- Personal or sensitive information sharing
Because anybody with the same email address URL may see the inbox (with public temp mail services), you should never use them for confidential or sensitive correspondence.
How is it different from a regular email?
Regular email accounts (such as Gmail and Yahoo) are permanent and allow you to send and receive emails. A one-way email is transitory, used for fast activities, and does not allow for responses.
Can I send emails from a one-way address?
No, one-way email accounts are only capable of receiving messages. They do not support email sending, answering, or forwarding.
Conclusion
A one-way email or one-way email address is a clever and practical solution to protect your online privacy and avoid spam. It provides you control over your digital imprint and prevents you from becoming swamped by needless emails.
Next time you join up for a website you don't really trust, use a one-way email to keep your actual inbox clean and secure!