How to open a "db crypt 14" file from WhatsApp on a computer?

How to open a db crypt 14 file from WhatsApp on a computer - briefly?

To open a "db crypt 14" file from WhatsApp on a computer, you will need to use a third-party tool or software specifically designed for decrypting and viewing such files. One commonly used tool is "WhatsApp Viewer," which can be downloaded and installed on your computer.

How to open a db crypt 14 file from WhatsApp on a computer - in detail?

Opening a "db crypt 14" file from WhatsApp on a computer involves several detailed steps, as these files are encrypted and require specific tools to access their content. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you through the process:

Step-by-Step Guide

Prerequisites

Before beginning, ensure you have the following:

  1. A backup of your WhatsApp data (this can be created via the WhatsApp application itself).
  2. A computer running Windows, macOS, or Linux.
  3. A text editor like Notepad++ for viewing the decrypted files.
  4. The WhatsApp database viewer tool, such as "DB Browser for SQLite."
  5. An Android File Transfer application if you're using a Mac (to transfer files from an Android device).

Step 1: Create a Backup

To create a backup of your WhatsApp data:

  1. Open the WhatsApp application on your phone.
  2. Go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup.
  3. Tap on Back Up and wait for the process to complete. This will create a backup file in the format "msgstore-YYYY-MM-DD.db.crypt14" in your device's internal storage.

Step 2: Transfer the Backup File to Your Computer

Using a USB cable, connect your phone to your computer:

  1. For Android: The backup file will be located in the WhatsApp/Databases folder on your device. Use a file manager or Android File Transfer to copy this file to your computer.
  2. For iPhone: Connect your iPhone to your computer and use iTunes or Finder (macOS Catalina and later) to transfer the backup file. The backup will be in the AppDomain-com.whatsapp.WhatsApp folder within the iTunes/Finder backup directory.

Step 3: Decrypt the Backup File

Use a tool like "db crypt" or similar decryption tools available online to decrypt your WhatsApp database:

  1. Download and install db crypt.
  2. Open db crypt and select the decrypted key file (if prompted) or provide the password if you set one during the backup process.
  3. Input the encrypted "msgstore-YYYY-MM-DD.db.crypt14" file into db crypt to generate a decrypted database file named "msgstore.db".

Step 4: View the Decrypted Database

To view the contents of your WhatsApp messages:

  1. Download and install DB Browser for SQLite.
  2. Open DB Browser for SQLite and select File > Open Database.
  3. Navigate to the location where you saved the decrypted "msgstore.db" file and open it.
  4. In the main window, you can browse through the tables such as message, chat_list, etc., to view your WhatsApp messages and other data.

Important Notes

  • Legal Considerations: Ensure that accessing someone else's WhatsApp data complies with legal regulations and privacy policies.
  • Backup Integrity: Regularly backup your WhatsApp data to avoid loss of important conversations or media files.
  • Tool Updates: Keep the decryption tools and database viewers updated to ensure compatibility and security.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully open and view the contents of a "db crypt 14" file from WhatsApp on your computer.