How to read deleted messages in WhatsApp from someone else - briefly?
It is not possible to read deleted messages in WhatsApp from someone else's phone due to the end-to-end encryption and local storage of messages on individual devices.
How to read deleted messages in WhatsApp from someone else - in detail?
Reading deleted messages in WhatsApp from someone else is a complex task that requires a combination of technical knowledge, the right tools, and ethical considerations. It's important to note that accessing someone else's deleted messages without their explicit consent is a violation of privacy and may be illegal depending on your jurisdiction. This guide is intended for educational purposes only.
Understanding Deleted Messages
When a message is deleted in WhatsApp, it isn’t permanently removed from the device or server immediately. Instead, it becomes hidden and can still be accessed through backup files or certain forensic tools. Understanding how this process works is crucial for attempting to recover these messages.
Method 1: Using Backup Files
WhatsApp creates regular backups of conversations, which are stored on the device or cloud storage (like Google Drive or iCloud). Accessing these backup files can provide a way to read deleted messages.
Steps:
- Access Device: Gain physical access to the target device. This is crucial as you need direct access to the backup files.
- Backup Extraction: Depending on the operating system, locate the backup files. For Android, they are usually found in the
/sdcard/WhatsApp/
directory. On iOS, backups can be found in iCloud or iTunes backups stored on a computer. - Use File Viewer: Open the backup file using a text viewer or specialized software that can read WhatsApp databases. Tools like DB Browser for SQLite or WhatsApp Viewer can be useful.
- Search for Messages: Navigate through the database to find the deleted messages. They are often still present but marked as deleted in the database records.
Method 2: Using Third-Party Software
There are third-party applications designed to recover deleted WhatsApp messages. These tools can scan the device and extract data from the backup files or directly from the device storage.
Steps:
- Download and Install: Choose a reputable recovery tool such as Dr.Fone, EaseUS MobiSaver, or Tenorshare UltData.
- Connect Device: Connect the target device to your computer using a USB cable.
- Scan for Deleted Messages: Follow the prompts in the software to scan the device for deleted WhatsApp messages.
- Recover Messages: Once the scan is complete, the software will list all recoverable messages. Select the ones you want to retrieve and save them to your computer.
Method 3: Forensic Tools
For more advanced users, forensic tools can be used to extract data from the device’s memory. These tools are often used by law enforcement agencies and require specialized knowledge.
Steps:
- Choose a Tool: Select a professional-grade forensic tool like Cellebrite UFED or Magnet AXIOM.
- Extract Data: Connect the target device to the computer running the forensic software and initiate a data extraction process.
- Analyze Data: Once extracted, analyze the data for deleted WhatsApp messages. These tools often have built-in capabilities to parse and display message content.
Ethical Considerations
It is essential to remember that reading someone else’s deleted messages can be an invasion of their privacy. Always ensure you have legal authority or explicit consent before attempting any recovery methods. Unauthorized access can lead to serious consequences, including legal action.
In conclusion, while it is possible to read deleted WhatsApp messages from someone else's device using backup files, third-party software, or forensic tools, it is crucial to do so ethically and legally. Always prioritize respect for privacy and adhere to the relevant laws in your jurisdiction.