Fluxer automatically expires older attachments. Smaller files stay available longer than larger ones. Viewing a message renews a file that is close to expiring.
How expiration is decided
The timer starts at upload. Files of 5 MB or smaller keep links for about three years, the longest window. Files near 500 MB keep links for about 14 days, the shortest. In between, larger files get shorter windows. Files above 500 MB are not accepted right now.
Extending availability when accessed
When anyone loads a message with a file that's inside its renewal window, we extend the file's expiration time without recording who loaded it. The renewal window depends on the file's size, from about 30 days for small files to about 7 days for the largest.
Loading the message in chat or search is enough, and you don't need to open the file. Several views in one window don't stack, and no file renews past its size limit.
What happens after expiration
We regularly delete expired attachments from our CDN and storage the same way as attachments you delete yourself, which section 7.3 of our privacy policy describes.
Why we expire attachments
Large media is expensive to store forever, and expiration keeps storage fair for everyone. Clearing old uploads lowers the chance of sensitive files staying available too long.
Keeping important files
If you need to keep a file, download a copy of it before it expires. For a full export of your account data, including attachment URLs, see exporting your account data.
Frequently asked questions
Does Plutonium extend file expiration?
No. The same attachment expiration limits apply to all users.
What about saved media?
Saved media lets you keep up to 50 files, or 500 with Plutonium. Files in saved media are exempt from attachment expiration, as section 7.1 of our privacy policy explains.
Can I hide the expiration indicator?
Yes. Open "User settings" and go to "Advanced". Under "Chat", select "Configure" next to "Media buttons", then switch off "Show attachment expiration indicator". On desktop and web, you can also right-click the expiration date under an attachment and choose "Hide expiration footnotes". Hiding the indicator doesn't change when files expire.