How to Recover Deleted WhatsApp Messages

Accidentally deleting WhatsApp messages can be a frustrating experience, but fear not! In this tutorial, we will guide you through several methods to fully recover your deleted WhatsApp messages.

Before we begin, it's important to note that WhatsApp only stores message backups for 7 days. If you haven't backed up your messages recently, the chances of recovering deleted messages are higher. Let's get started!

Method 1: Restore from WhatsApp Backup

1. Uninstall WhatsApp from your device.
2. Reinstall WhatsApp from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
3. During the initial setup, enter your phone number and verify it.
4. WhatsApp will detect the available backup and prompt you to restore it. Tap on "Restore" to recover your deleted messages.
5. Wait for the restore process to complete. Once finished, you can access your recovered messages in the chat history.

Please note that this method will only work if you have an existing backup available.

Method 2: Recover from Local WhatsApp Backup (Android Only)

1. On your Android device, go to File Manager or a file explorer app.
2. Navigate to the "WhatsApp" folder.
3. Inside the "WhatsApp" folder, locate the "Database" folder.
4. You will find multiple backup files with names like "msgstore-YYYY-MM-DD.1.db.crypt12".
5. Rename the backup file you want to restore to "msgstore.db.crypt12".
6. Uninstall WhatsApp from your device.
7. Reinstall WhatsApp from the Google Play Store.
8. During the setup process, WhatsApp will detect the modified backup file and ask if you want to restore it. Tap on "Restore" to recover your deleted messages.
9. After the restore process completes, you can access your recovered messages within WhatsApp.

Keep in mind that this method is specific to Android devices.

Method 3: Recover from WhatsApp Chat History Email (iOS Only)

1. Open the WhatsApp app on your iPhone.
2. Navigate to the chat containing the deleted messages.
3. Swipe left on the chat and tap on "More".
4. Select "Export Chat" and choose whether to include media or not.
5. Select the desired email app to send the chat history.
6. Enter your email address and send the chat history to yourself.
7. Open your email on a computer and download the chat history.
8. Use a text editor to open the downloaded chat file.
9. Search for the deleted messages within the file and copy them if necessary.

This method is specific to iOS devices and requires you to have a backup of the chat history emailed to you.

Method 4: Use Third-Party Data Recovery Software

If the above methods don't work, you can try using third-party data recovery software. Here are the general steps:

1. Research and choose a reputable WhatsApp data recovery software. Some popular options include Dr.Fone, iMobie PhoneRescue, and Enigma Recovery.
2. Download and install the chosen software on your computer.
3. Connect your smartphone to the computer using a USB cable.
4. Follow the software's instructions to scan your device for deleted WhatsApp messages.
5. Once the scan is complete, preview the recoverable messages and select the ones you want to recover.
6. Click on the "Recover" button and choose a location to save the recovered messages.

Remember to read reviews and check the software's compatibility with your device before proceeding.

Conclusion

Losing WhatsApp messages doesn't have to be permanent. By following the methods mentioned above, you can increase your chances of recovering deleted messages. It's important to act quickly and ensure you have a recent backup to improve your chances of successful recovery.