Despite their usefulness, one-time passwords or OTPs can quickly spam a message inbox if left alone. For those who are experiencing this issue, it can be very convenient to know about the Google Message feature that automatically deletes OTPs after use.
Google Authenticator: OTP Messages
One popular strategy for securing online accounts is two-factor authentication or 2FA. This is a security feature that requires a person to sign in a username, password, and one-time password sent to a trusted device like a smartphone.
It should be emphasized that an OTP no longer serves any purpose once it is used, hence the naming "one time" password. These are systematically generated codes that will eventually expire after a period of time.
So be warned that if you constantly use this security feature, then your message inbox could be quickly filled up with OTP messages. For reference, the OTP security feature is available for social media accounts, online bank accounts and many other digital profiles linked to the internet.
According to Gizchina, some popular apps and services that use OTP security features are Amazon, Discord, Dropbox, Facebook, Gmail, Microsoft and Twitter. Chances are, you have accounts in all of these.
In short, you will probably receive OTPs frequently if you are active on the internet. So it will be helpful to activate a feature that can delete the useless passcodes.
Google Messages Secret Feature
Sources from Lifehacker reveal that Google is beginning to roll out an exciting new update for its messaging app, which can help resolve the OTP issue. The update teases an AI which can sort conversations by categories, group them into threads, and delete unnecessary messages.
This feature is only available for Google Messages, so Android users are encouraged to download the app. The app is available on Google Play Store and can be downloaded via APK Mirror.
How to Auto-Delete OTPs
If the update is already installed on the device, you should immediately see some messages being categorized in standard groups likes "All," "Personal," and "Business."
To activate the hidden feature, click on the "Message Organisation." There should be a new option titled "Auto-delete OTPs after 24 hours." Remember to toggle on the feature so the AI can start sorting and deleting spam OTPs.
It is worth emphasizing that 24 hours is a generous timeframe for OTPs. As previously mentioned, OTPs expire after a period of time, usually just under 15 minutes. If you failed to input the code in the timeframe, you would often be forced to generate a new code from the system.
Overall, 2FA and OTPs are still some of the most reliable methods to protect an online account. It can help ensure that the person opening the account is none other than you, the owner.
Hopefully, this tip can help you clear up your inbox.
Related Article: Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra vs. Google Pixel 6 Pro: Which One Should You Buy?
