A system, method, apparatus, means, and computer program code for processing of an instant message. According to embodiments of the present invention, a sender or originator of an instant message may be sent a notification regarding one or more actions involving the instant message after the instant message is received by or at a device. One or more of the actions may take place after the instant message remains unread or unopened on the device for a given period of time. In addition, in some embodiments, the instant message may be saved, forwarded, returned to the sender, etc. after receipt of the instant message by or at the device according to one or more rules established by the sender and/or the receiver of the instant message.