How can I restore deleted messages in WhatsApp on Android?

How can I restore deleted messages in WhatsApp on Android - briefly?

Restoring deleted messages in WhatsApp on Android is possible through a few methods. The most common approach is to use a backup file created before the messages were deleted. To do this, uninstall and then reinstall WhatsApp, followed by restoring the chat history from the backup during the setup process.

How can I restore deleted messages in WhatsApp on Android - in detail?

Restoring deleted messages in WhatsApp on an Android device is a common concern among users. While the process is not straightforward, there are several methods you can try to recover your lost messages. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process:

Backup and Restore Method

WhatsApp provides a built-in backup feature that automatically saves your chats to Google Drive. If you have enabled this feature, restoring deleted messages is relatively simple.

1. Uninstall and Reinstall WhatsApp:

   • Open the Google Play Store and search for WhatsApp.
   • Tap on 'Uninstall' to remove the app from your device.
   • After uninstallation, go back to the Play Store and reinstall WhatsApp.

2. Verify Your Number:

   • Open WhatsApp after it has been installed.
   • Enter your phone number when prompted and verify it via SMS or call.

3. Restore from Backup:

   • Once your number is verified, you will see a prompt asking if you want to restore your chats from the backup found on Google Drive.
   • Tap on 'Restore' to retrieve your deleted messages along with other chat data.

Manual Backup Method

If you have manually created backups of your WhatsApp data, you can use these files to restore your messages.

1. Locate the Backup Folder:

   • Connect your Android device to your computer using a USB cable.
   • Navigate to the 'WhatsApp' folder on your internal storage or SD card.
   • Look for the 'Databases' folder within the WhatsApp directory.

2. Rename the Backup File:

   • Find the backup file with the date and time you want to restore (e.g., msgstore-YYYY-MM-DD.db.crypt12).
   • Rename this file to 'msgstore.db.crypt12' without changing its extension.

3. Restore the Backup:

   • Uninstall and then reinstall WhatsApp on your device.
   • Follow the initial setup process, verifying your number as usual.
   • When prompted to restore chats from Google Drive, decline this option.
   • Instead, WhatsApp will automatically look for the 'msgstore.db.crypt12' file in your device’s storage and use it to restore your messages.

Third-Party Apps Method

If the above methods do not work, you can try using third-party apps designed to recover deleted WhatsApp messages. These apps often require root access to your device.

1. Root Your Device:

   • Rooting your Android device allows you to gain full control over the system files and data.
   • Be cautious as rooting can void your warranty and potentially harm your device if not done correctly.

2. Install a Recovery App:

   • Search for reputable WhatsApp recovery apps on the Google Play Store or trusted third-party sources.
   • Download and install the app, following the instructions provided by the developer.

3. Scan for Deleted Messages:

   • Open the recovery app and grant it the necessary permissions to access your device’s storage.
   • Initiate a scan to search for deleted WhatsApp messages.
   • Once the scan is complete, review the recovered messages and select the ones you want to restore.

Important Tips

• Regular Backups: Ensure that you regularly back up your WhatsApp chats to avoid losing important messages in the future.
• Cloud Storage: Utilize cloud storage services like Google Drive to store your backup files securely.
• Root Caution: Be aware of the risks associated with rooting your device and only proceed if you are confident in your abilities.

By following these detailed steps, you should be able to restore deleted messages in WhatsApp on your Android device effectively.