A method for preserving e-mail messages. It is determined, by a processor, whether an event has occurred with respect to an e-mail message, wherein an occurrence of the event results in a consequence activity with respect to the e-mail message. Responsive to determining that the event has occurred, it is determined, by the processor, whether criteria is satisfied, wherein the criteria relates to a status of an e-mail user. Responsive to determining that the criteria is satisfied, the consequence activity is prevented notwithstanding that the event has occurred.