In the fast-paced digital era, messaging apps like WhatsApp have become an integral part of our daily communication. However, the ability to delete messages has introduced a new layer of privacy and control. But what if you want to retrieve those seemingly lost messages?
Is it possible to unveil the secrets hidden behind deleted WhatsApp messages? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore various methods and tools that claim to help you see deleted messages on WhatsApp.
Understanding WhatsApp’s Message Deletion Feature:
Before delving into ways to retrieve deleted messages, it’s crucial to comprehend how WhatsApp’s message deletion feature works. When a user deletes a message, it is removed from their chat, but a placeholder is left behind indicating that a message was deleted. The message content is encrypted and stored locally on the device for a certain period. After this time frame, the message is permanently deleted, making recovery more challenging.
WhatsApp Notification Log
One method that’s often cited to recover deleted messages involves accessing the notification log on Android devices. Android keeps a log of all notifications, including those from WhatsApp. Follow these steps:
Access Widget Settings:
Long-press on the home screen.
Select “Widgets.”
Look for the “Settings” widget and drag it to the home screen.
Access Notification Log:
Tap on the “Settings” widget.
Scroll down and select “Notification log.”
Find WhatsApp Messages:
Look for the WhatsApp icon in the notification log.
Browse through the log to find deleted messages.
Third-Party Apps
Several third-party applications claim to help users recover deleted WhatsApp messages. It’s important to note that the effectiveness of these apps can vary, and some may pose security risks. Always choose reputable apps with positive reviews.
Dr.Fone – Data Recovery:
Download and install Dr.Fone on your computer.
Connect your smartphone to the computer.
Select “Data Recovery” and scan your device for WhatsApp messages.
iMobie PhoneRescue:
Install and launch PhoneRescue on your computer.
Connect your smartphone and select “Recover from iOS Device” or “Recover from Android Device.”
Follow on-screen instructions to retrieve deleted messages.
WhatsApp Backup:
WhatsApp provides an option to back up your chat history to either Google Drive (for Android) or iCloud (for iOS). If you have a recent backup, you can restore your chat history, including deleted messages.
Check Backup Settings:
Open WhatsApp and go to “Settings.”
Navigate to “Chats” and then “Chat backup.”
Restore from Backup:
Uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp.
During the setup process, choose “Restore” when prompted.
Use a File Explorer (Android):
This method involves using a file explorer app to access WhatsApp’s local files and databases. Note that this method requires a certain level of technical proficiency.
Access WhatsApp Databases:
Use a file explorer app (e.g., Solid Explorer) to navigate to the WhatsApp folder on your device.
Look for the “Databases” folder.
Restore Deleted Messages:
Identify the most recent database file.
Rename it to “msgstore.db.crypt12” and then uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp.
During the setup process, choose to restore from the local backup.
Conclusion:
While these methods claim to provide a way to see deleted messages on WhatsApp, it’s essential to approach them with caution. WhatsApp is committed to user privacy and security, and attempting to recover deleted messages may violate its terms of service. Additionally, there’s no foolproof method, and success may vary depending on factors like device type, WhatsApp version, and backup status.
