How to delete a message for both sides in WhatsApp?

How to delete a message for both sides in WhatsApp - briefly?

To delete a message for both sides in WhatsApp, open the chat, tap and hold the message you want to delete, select 'Delete', then choose 'Delete for everyone'. This action must be completed within 1 hour, 8 minutes, and 16 seconds of sending the message.

How to delete a message for both sides in WhatsApp - in detail?

Deleting a message for both sides in WhatsApp is a feature designed to provide users with the ability to remove messages from both their own device and the recipient's device. This functionality can be particularly useful if you sent a message by mistake or if you wish to revise what was shared. Here’s how you can utilize this feature effectively:

Firstly, it is essential to understand that WhatsApp allows users to delete messages for both parties within a specific time frame. The message must be deleted within 7 minutes of sending it for the deletion to take effect on both ends. After this window, only the sender's device will show the "This message was deleted" notification.

To delete a message for both sides, follow these detailed steps:

  1. Open WhatsApp: Launch the WhatsApp application on your mobile device.
  2. Navigate to the Chat: Go to the chat where you sent the message that you wish to delete.
  3. Select the Message: Long press on the message you want to remove until it is highlighted and checkmarked. You can select multiple messages if needed.
  4. Delete for Me/You: At the top of your screen, tap the "Delete" icon (a trash can or a bin symbol). This option will delete the message from your device only. If you choose this, the recipient will still see the message on their end.
  5. Delete for Everyone: Instead of simply deleting the message for yourself, look for an additional option that says "Delete for everyone" (this might be labeled differently depending on the version of WhatsApp you are using). Tapping this will initiate the process of deleting the message from both your device and the recipient’s device.
  6. Confirmation: After selecting "Delete for everyone," a confirmation dialog will appear, asking if you are sure about your decision. Confirm by tapping "Delete."

Once confirmed, the message will be removed from both devices, and the recipients will see a notification that reads "This message was deleted." It is important to note that even after deletion, there may still be traces of the message in backups or notifications. Therefore, it is advisable to act swiftly within the 7-minute window to ensure complete removal.

In conclusion, using WhatsApp's "Delete for everyone" feature allows you to maintain control over your conversations by removing any unwanted messages from both parties involved. This capability enhances privacy and ensures that sensitive information is not unintentionally shared or retained.