# Send a key safely (OneTimeSecret)

Every key goes through a self-destructing link. Takes 1 minute, no account needed.

## Why we do it this way

If you paste a key in an email or chat, it sits there forever: in your inbox, our inbox, backups, and anyone who gets into those accounts later.

**OneTimeSecret** gives you a link that works **once**. After we open it, the key is deleted from their server. If anyone opens the link later, they see nothing.

> **Good to know:**
> Free, no account needed. Data is stored in the European Union if you use the link below.

## Step by step

### Step 1: Copy the key from the tool

Follow the page for that tool in this guide. Keep the key on your clipboard.

### Step 2: Open OneTimeSecret (EU)

Go to [eu.onetimesecret.com](https://eu.onetimesecret.com). This stores the secret in the EU.

### Step 3: Paste the key, with a label

In the big text box, write what it is on the first line, then paste the key. For example:

```
Smartlead API key
a1b2c3d4-e5f6-...
```

If the tool gave you two codes (like **Client ID** and **Client Secret**), put both in the same box, each on its own line with its name.

### Step 4: Set the expiry to 7 days

Under **Expiration Time**, choose **7 days**. This is the maximum without an account.

### Step 5: (Optional) Add a passphrase

For payment or Google keys, type a short **Passphrase**. Send it to us by a **different** channel (for example by phone or WhatsApp if the link goes by email).

### Step 6: Click Create Link

Click **Create Link**. You see a page with your link and a copy button.

### Step 7: Copy the link and send it to us

Copy the link and send it to us by email or Slack. The link is safe to send: it doesn't contain the key itself.

> **Careful:**
> **Do not click the link yourself.** It works only once. If you open it, the key is gone and we can't see it. If that happens, just make a new link.

## Good to know

### Can I put several keys in one link?

Yes. One link can hold up to 10,000 characters. Put each key on its own line with the tool name above it.

### How do I know you received it?

Keep the receipt page open (or bookmark it). It shows when the secret was viewed.

### I sent the link to the wrong person

On the receipt page click **Burn this secret**, then confirm. The link stops working. If it was already viewed, delete the key in the tool and create a new one.

### The link expired before you opened it

Nothing leaked. Create a new link with the same key and send it again.

<sub>Last checked: 22 Oct 2026 against [onetimesecret.com](https://onetimesecret.com/en/) and its [open-source code](https://github.com/onetimesecret/onetimesecret).</sub>

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Source: https://guide.upliftedconsulting.com/start-here/sending-securely · Updated 2026-10-22