Can I recover deleted files in WhatsApp - briefly?
Yes, it is possible to recover deleted files from WhatsApp. However, the success of recovery depends on several factors such as the type and timing of deletion, as well as whether you have a backup available.
Can I recover deleted files in WhatsApp - in detail?
Recovering deleted files in WhatsApp can be a challenging task due to the nature of how data is stored and managed by the application. However, there are several methods that users can employ to attempt recovery, each with its own set of requirements and limitations.
Firstly, it's crucial to understand that WhatsApp does not provide a native feature for recovering deleted files directly within the app. Nevertheless, data is often backed up automatically or manually by users, which can serve as a primary source for restoration.
Automatic Backups:
WhatsApp offers an automatic backup feature that saves messages, photos, and videos to either Google Drive (for Android users) or iCloud (for iOS users). These backups are typically created daily at 2 AM local time. To restore files from these backups:
- Uninstall and Reinstall WhatsApp: Ensure you have the latest version of WhatsApp installed on your device.
- Verify Your Number: During the setup process, verify your phone number.
- Restore from Backup: When prompted, choose to restore your chat history from the available backup.
Manual Backups:
For users who prefer manual control over their data, WhatsApp allows creating local backups that can be stored on an external storage device or cloud service. To recover files from a manual backup:
- Locate the Backup File: Find the backup file on your device's internal storage or SD card. For Android, it is typically located in the
WhatsApp/Databasesfolder. - Rename the Backup File: Rename the backup file from
msgstore-YYYY-MM-DD.db.crypt12tomsgstore.db.crypt12. - Reinstall WhatsApp: Uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp, then follow the setup process as mentioned above.
- Restore from Local Backup: When prompted, choose the option to restore your chat history from a local backup instead of Google Drive or iCloud.
Third-Party Recovery Tools:
In cases where backups are not available or insufficient, users can turn to third-party recovery tools designed specifically for WhatsApp data. These tools often require root access (for Android) and may have varying degrees of success depending on the specifics of the deletion and the device's storage configuration.
Professional Data Recovery Services:
For users who are not comfortable with technical procedures or for critical data loss, professional data recovery services can be considered. These services often employ advanced techniques and tools to recover lost WhatsApp files, although they may come at a higher cost.
In conclusion, while recovering deleted files in WhatsApp is possible through several methods, the success of the recovery largely depends on whether backups were enabled and maintained regularly. Users are advised to enable automatic backups to ensure that their data is safeguarded against accidental deletions or device failures.