How to Recover Deleted WhatsApp Messages: Complete Guide
WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps worldwide. Losing important chats accidentally can be frustrating. The good news is that recovering deleted WhatsApp messages is possible through several methods. In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to get your lost messages back.
1. Retrieve Deleted WhatsApp Messages from Backup
WhatsApp makes it simpler to recover deleted messages by automatically backing up your chat history.
Procedure for Android:
To view your most recent WhatsApp backup, open Google Drive.
On your phone, uninstall and then reinstall WhatsApp.
Check your phone number.
When asked to retrieve messages from Google Drive, select Restore.
Procedure for the iPhone:
Ensure that your WhatsApp data is stored in an iCloud backup.
Reinstall WhatsApp after deleting it.
Check your phone number.
To retrieve your messages, select Restore Chat History.
Pro Tip: Ensure your backup is recent to recover the latest deleted messages.
2. Recover Deleted WhatsApp Messages without Backup
If you haven’t backed up your messages, you can still try the following:
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Using Local Backup on Android:
WhatsApp stores local backups on Android devices for the last 7 days. You can restore messages from this backup by renaming the backup file in your device storage before reinstalling WhatsApp. -
Third-Party Recovery Apps:
Apps like Dr.Fone, iMobie PhoneRescue, and Tenorshare UltData can help recover deleted WhatsApp messages. Make sure to choose trusted apps to avoid data breaches.
3. Retrieve Deleted WhatsApp Messages on an iPhone Without a Backup
iTunes or Finder backups can be used by iPhone users to try recovery:
Link your computer to your iPhone.
Launch iTunes (or, on macOS Catalina and later, Finder).
Select the appropriate backup date after choosing Restore Backup.
To restore deleted messages, finish the restore procedure.
4. Stop Future Data Losses
Turn on WhatsApp’s automatic backup (daily or weekly).
Check the status of your backups on a regular basis using Google Drive or iCloud storage.
Don’t delete conversations that might have crucial information.
FAQs About Recovering Deleted WhatsApp Messages
Q1: Can I recover WhatsApp messages deleted a long time ago?
Yes, but it depends on your backup frequency and storage availability. Messages not backed up may be unrecoverable.
Q2: Is it safe to use third-party recovery apps?
Only use trusted apps from reputable sources. Avoid suspicious apps that might compromise your privacy.
Q3: Will restoring a backup overwrite my current chats?
Yes, restoring a backup replaces current messages with those in the backup. Make sure to export important chats before restoring.