How do I restore a deleted WhatsApp chat?

How do I restore a deleted WhatsApp chat - briefly?

Restoring a deleted WhatsApp chat can be done by uninstalling and then reinstalling the app. During the reinstallation process, you will be prompted to restore your chat history if a backup exists.

How do I restore a deleted WhatsApp chat - in detail?

Restoring a deleted WhatsApp chat can be a stressful experience, but there are several methods you can try to recover your lost messages. It's important to note that the success of these methods depends on various factors such as the backup frequency and the type of device you are using.

Backup Method:

Automatic Backups: WhatsApp automatically backs up your chats to Google Drive (for Android users) or iCloud (for iPhone users). These backups occur daily at 2 AM local time, provided that your device is connected to the internet and has sufficient battery life.
- To restore from a backup on an Android device:
  - Uninstall WhatsApp.
  - Reinstall it from the Google Play Store.
  - Open WhatsApp and follow the setup instructions until you reach the 'Restore' screen.
  - Tap 'Restore' to retrieve your messages.
- To restore from a backup on an iPhone:
  - Uninstall WhatsApp.
  - Reinstall it from the App Store.
  - Open WhatsApp and follow the setup instructions until you reach the 'Restore' screen.
  - Tap 'Restore Chat History' to retrieve your messages.

Manual Backup:

Manual Backups: If you have manually backed up your chats, you can restore them by following these steps:
- For Android users: Copy the backup file from your computer or cloud storage to the WhatsApp/Databases folder on your device’s internal memory.
- For iPhone users: Ensure that the backup file is in your iCloud account.

Local Backup:

Local Backups: If you have a local backup of your chats, you can restore it by following these steps:
- Connect your device to your computer and copy the backup files from the WhatsApp/Databases folder on your device’s internal memory or SD card to your computer.
- Rename the backup file with the extension .db. For example, if the backup file is named msgstore-YYYY-MM-DD.1.db.crypt12, rename it to msgstore.db.crypt12.
- Copy the renamed backup file back to your device in the WhatsApp/Databases folder.

Email Backup:

Email Backups: If you have emailed yourself a copy of your chat history, you can restore it by following these steps:
- Open the email containing the chat history and download the attached file.
- Copy the downloaded file to the WhatsApp/Databases folder on your device’s internal memory or SD card.

Third-Party Software:

Third-Party Software: If none of the above methods work, you can try using third-party software designed for data recovery. These tools scan your device for deleted files and attempt to recover them. However, it's important to use reputable software to ensure the safety of your personal data.

Important Considerations:

Backup Frequency: The success of these methods depends on how frequently you backup your chats. Regular backups increase the chances of successful restoration.
Device Compatibility: Some methods may not work if you are switching from one operating system to another (e.g., from Android to iPhone).
Data Security: Be cautious when using third-party software, as they might pose a risk to your data security. Always download software from trusted sources.

By following these detailed steps, you can increase the likelihood of successfully restoring your deleted WhatsApp chats and retrieving your valuable conversations.