The present invention relates generally to a system and method of maintaining private communications using coded messages using an application program configured for activating privacy controls for intercepting electronic transmissions, e.g. text messages, for controlling how they are displayed upon receipt of a selection of a coded icon corresponding to a decoded message, wherein the application program converts the selected coded icon into the decoded message that is converted into cryptic text for display while the text message is being created for transmission, thereby maintaining the privacy of the communications. The cryptic text is again converted into the decoded message for transmission such that the recipient receives the message in decoded format. If the recipient's communication device is configured with the application program, upon receipt of the decoded message it is intercepted and will be displayed as cryptic text until read or reviewed by the intended recipient.