How to delete messages in WhatsApp after deleting them yourself - briefly?
Deleting messages in WhatsApp is a common task, but it's important to understand that once you delete a message, it cannot be retrieved. If you need to remove a message permanently, simply press and hold the message until the options menu appears, then select "Delete" followed by "Delete for everyone."
How to delete messages in WhatsApp after deleting them yourself - in detail?
Deleting messages in WhatsApp can be a straightforward process, but it becomes more complex when you need to remove messages that have already been deleted from your device. However, there are several methods you can employ to ensure the complete removal of these messages.
Firstly, let's understand the difference between deleting and revoking messages. When you delete a message on WhatsApp, it remains in the chat history until both parties remove it. Revoking a message, on the other hand, allows you to delete the message from both your device and the recipient’s device within a specific time frame (1 hour, 8 minutes, and 30 seconds).
If you have deleted messages from your WhatsApp chat but need to ensure they are permanently removed from both devices involved in the conversation, follow these steps:
For Android Users:
- Backup Data: Before proceeding with any deletion process, it is crucial to back up your data. Go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup and create a backup of your chats.
- Delete Messages: Open the chat from which you want to delete messages. Select the message(s) you wish to remove by long-pressing on them, then tap the trash can icon at the top of the screen.
- Revoke Messages: For messages that have already been deleted but need to be removed from both devices, you cannot revoke them directly after the 1-hour window has passed. However, you can clear the chat history by following these steps:
- Ensure Permanent Deletion: To ensure permanent deletion, ask the recipient to clear their chat history as well using the same method described above.
For iOS Users:
- Backup Data: Similarly, back up your data before making any changes. Go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup and create a backup of your chats.
- Delete Messages: Open the chat from which you want to delete messages. Select the message(s) by swiping left on them, then tap "Delete".
- Revoke Messages: Just like with Android users, revoking a message after the 1-hour window has passed is not possible. To clear the chat history:
- Ensure Permanent Deletion: Ask the recipient to clear their chat history using the same method described above.
Additional Tips:
- Delete for Everyone Option: When you send a message, you can use the "Delete for Everyone" option within 1 hour, 8 minutes, and 30 seconds of sending it. This will delete the message from both your device and the recipient’s device.
- Regularly Clear Chat History: It is a good practice to regularly clear chat history, especially in group chats or conversations that contain sensitive information.
By following these steps, you can effectively manage and remove messages from WhatsApp, ensuring that they are deleted from both your device and the recipient’s device.