How to recover deleted chat files in WhatsApp - briefly?
Recovering deleted chat files in WhatsApp is possible through a few methods. The most effective way is by using a backup service that regularly saves your chats to the cloud or local storage. If you have not enabled this feature previously, third-party recovery software can sometimes help, but success is not guaranteed.
How to recover deleted chat files in WhatsApp - in detail?
Recovering deleted chat files in WhatsApp can be a daunting task, but it is possible with the right methods and tools. Here's a detailed guide on how to recover your lost messages:
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Check Your Backup:
WhatsApp automatically backs up your chats to Google Drive or iCloud, depending on whether you are using an Android or iOS device. To restore from a backup:
- For Android: Uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp. When prompted, tap "Restore" to retrieve your messages from the most recent backup.
- For iPhone: Ensure that you have backed up your chats to iCloud. If you have, uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp, then follow the prompts to restore your chat history from iCloud.
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Use Third-Party Software:
If you haven't backed up your chats or if the backup is outdated, you can use third-party software designed for data recovery. Here are some popular options:
- Dr.Fone - WhatsApp Recovery (for both Android and iOS): This tool allows you to recover deleted WhatsApp messages, photos, videos, and more. Connect your device to a computer and follow the on-screen instructions to scan and retrieve your lost data.
- EaseUS MobiSaver (for iOS): This software is specifically designed for iOS devices and can help you recover deleted WhatsApp messages, contacts, call logs, photos, videos, notes, and more.
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Use File Explorer (Android Only):
If you are using an Android device and have not overwritten the deleted files with new data, you might be able to recover them manually:
- Connect your phone to a computer.
- Open File Explorer or any other file management software.
- Navigate to the WhatsApp folder (usually located in
This PC > Phone > WhatsApp > Databases). - Look for files named "msgstore-YYYY-MM-DD.1.db.crypt12" and rename them by removing the ".crypt12" extension.
- Copy these files to your computer as a backup.
- Uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp, then restore from the backup you just created.
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Contact WhatsApp Support:
If none of the above methods work, you can try contacting WhatsApp support for further assistance. They may be able to provide additional guidance or tools specific to your situation.
Remember that the success of recovery depends on several factors, including how long ago the messages were deleted and whether new data has been added since then. Acting quickly after deletion increases the chances of a successful recovery.
By following these detailed steps, you should be able to recover your lost WhatsApp chat files effectively.