A statement appended to an electronic message that intends to protect the confidentiality of the information contained within. Typically, it outlines the intended recipients, any restrictions on forwarding or disclosing the content, and potential legal consequences for unauthorized use or disclosure. For instance, a message might include text stating, “This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.”
These statements play a role in managing expectations regarding the privacy of electronic communications. They can serve as a reminder to recipients about their obligations to maintain secrecy. While the legal enforceability of such notices varies depending on jurisdiction and specific circumstances, they can contribute to a culture of data protection and serve as evidence of an organization’s intent to safeguard sensitive information. Historically, their usage grew alongside the increasing reliance on electronic communication for business and personal exchanges, as a way to adapt traditional concepts of privacy to the digital realm.