How can I delete WhatsApp backup files from my Android device permanently?

How can I delete WhatsApp backup files from my Android device permanently - briefly?

To permanently delete WhatsApp backup files from your Android device, you need to access the file manager, navigate to the WhatsApp folder in your internal storage, and manually delete the backup files. After deletion, ensure that these files cannot be restored by emptying the trash bin within the file manager.

How can I delete WhatsApp backup files from my Android device permanently - in detail?

Deleting WhatsApp backup files from your Android device permanently requires a careful and methodical approach to ensure that the data is completely removed and cannot be recovered. Here's a detailed guide on how to accomplish this:

Understanding Backup Files

WhatsApp backups are typically stored in two locations: local storage (internal memory or SD card) and cloud storage (Google Drive). To delete these backups permanently, you need to address both areas.

Deleting Local Backups

1. Locate the Backup File: WhatsApp backup files are usually found in the 'WhatsApp' folder within your device's internal memory or SD card. The file is named msgstore.db.crypt12 (or a similar name with a crypt extension).

2. Delete the Backup File:

   • Open the File Manager app on your Android device.
   • Navigate to the 'WhatsApp' folder in either internal storage or your SD card.
   • Locate the msgstore.db.crypt12 file (or a similar name).
   • Long-press the file to select it, then tap on the delete icon to remove it permanently.

Deleting Cloud Backups

1. Open WhatsApp: Launch the WhatsApp application on your Android device.
2. Access Settings: Tap on the three dots in the top-right corner to open the menu, then select 'Settings'.
3. Navigate to Chats: In the Settings menu, tap on 'Chats'.
4. Backup: Under the 'Chats' section, you will see an option for 'Backup'. Tap on it.

5. Delete Backup: If there is a backup stored in Google Drive, you will see details about the last backup. To delete this backup:

   • Make sure your device is connected to the internet.
   • Click on the 'DELETE BACKUP' button (this will remove the backup from both your device and Google Drive).

Additional Steps for Permanent Deletion

1. Clear Cache: To ensure no residual data remains, clear the WhatsApp cache:

   • Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > WhatsApp.
   • Tap on 'Storage & cache'.
   • Click on 'Clear Cache'.

2. Uninstall and Reinstall WhatsApp: For a thorough cleanup:

   • Uninstall WhatsApp from your device.
   • Restart your device.
   • Reinstall WhatsApp from the Google Play Store.

Final Verification

After following these steps, verify that all backup files have been deleted by checking both the 'WhatsApp' folder in your File Manager and the Google Drive app to ensure no backups are present.

By meticulously following this process, you can permanently delete WhatsApp backup files from your Android device, ensuring complete removal of any sensitive data.