Temporary email attachments
View or download them while the current mailbox is active; files are not retained beyond the address lifetime.
Attachment handling guide
Temporary email can receive attachments—retention depends on the delivery path
Attachments are not ordinary message content. Temporary email lets you view them only while the address is active; forwarding aliases decide whether they also enter a 30-day archive based on size.
Four size thresholds
Check total message size first, then decide whether archiving is needed
Size limits account for the full message and attachment processing overhead. The sender’s own limits may be lower.
Up to 50 MB
The forwarding alias delivers the message normally, with downloads available in the 30-day archive alongside the message details.
50–100 MB
The message is prioritized for delivery to your receiving mailbox, but the archive does not retain a downloadable attachment copy.
Over 100 MB
Rejected to protect the delivery system. Ask the sender to use a trusted cloud-storage link or split the file.
Delivery paths
Three ways an attachment can reach you
“Forwarded” does not necessarily mean “available to download from the archive,” especially for larger attachments.
Sender → temporary address → download while active. Best for short-term, low-risk files.
Sender → alias → regular inbox, with message details and attachment access retained for 30 days.
Larger messages go to your regular inbox; the archive only notes that the attachment was not retained, reducing storage exposure.
| Condition | Delivered to regular inbox | Attachment in 30-day archive | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| While the temporary address is active | Not applicable | Not applicable | Download promptly and verify it yourself |
| Forwarded message ≤50 MB | Yes | Yes | Still save necessary files locally |
| Forwarded message 50–100 MB | Yes | No | Download from your regular inbox |
| Forwarded message >100 MB | No | No | Ask the sender to use a link or split the file |
Safety checklist
Being able to download a file doesn’t mean you should open it
Mailbox isolation can reduce address exposure, but it does not automatically prove that a file is trustworthy.
Verify the sender’s domain
Display names can be spoofed. First confirm that the actual address matches the process you just completed.
Don’t run files directly
Inspect executable files, macro-enabled documents, and unknown archives in a controlled environment first.
Never send secrets
Do not rely on temporary email to transmit or store passwords, recovery codes, identity documents, or private keys.
Save important files elsewhere
A 30-day archive is not a backup service. Save legitimate files you need as soon as possible.