How to recover deleted files from WhatsApp?

How to recover deleted files from WhatsApp - briefly?

To recover deleted files from WhatsApp, you can use a backup service or third-party software designed for data recovery. Ensure that the backup was created before the deletion occurred to maximize the chances of successful file retrieval.

How to recover deleted files from WhatsApp - in detail?

Recovering deleted files from WhatsApp can be a challenging process, but with the right tools and techniques, it is often possible. Below are detailed steps to help you retrieve your lost data:

Understanding Data Storage in WhatsApp

WhatsApp stores data in several locations on your device, including the internal storage and any connected SD cards (on Android devices). Understanding where your data is stored can significantly aid the recovery process.

Method 1: Using Backup Files

Before attempting more complex methods, check if you have a recent backup of your WhatsApp data.

For Android Users:

1. Open WhatsApp and go to Settings > Chats.
2. Tap on Chat Backup to see the last backup date.
3. If there is a recent backup, uninstall and then reinstall WhatsApp.
4. During the setup process, you will be prompted to restore your chat history from the backup file. Follow the prompts to complete the restoration.

For iPhone Users:

1. Open iCloud on your device and check if there is a recent backup of your WhatsApp data.
2. If available, uninstall and then reinstall WhatsApp.
3. During the setup process, you will be prompted to restore your chat history from the iCloud backup. Follow the prompts to complete the restoration.

Method 2: Using Third-Party Software

If you do not have a recent backup, third-party recovery software can help retrieve your deleted files. These tools work by scanning your device's memory for remnants of deleted data.

Steps to Use Third-Party Recovery Tools:

1. Choose a Reliable Software: Popular options include Dr.Fone, EaseUS MobiSaver, and Tenorshare UltData.
2. Download and Install the software on your computer.
3. Connect Your Device to the computer using a USB cable.
4. Open the Recovery Tool and follow the on-screen instructions to scan your device for deleted WhatsApp data.
5. Preview and Recover the files. Most tools allow you to preview the recoverable data before restoring it to your device or exporting it to a computer.

Method 3: Using Google Drive Backup (Android)

If you have enabled Google Drive backup for WhatsApp, your deleted messages might still be available in the cloud.

Steps to Restore from Google Drive:

1. Uninstall and Reinstall WhatsApp on your Android device.
2. Open WhatsApp and follow the setup process until you reach the screen where you are prompted to restore your chat history.
3. Tap on Restore to retrieve your messages from Google Drive.

Method 4: Using Local Backup (Android)

WhatsApp also creates local backups that can be found in the internal storage of your Android device.

Steps to Restore from Local Backup:

1. Locate the Backup Folder: Navigate to sdcard/WhatsApp/Databases on your device.
2. Find the Latest Backup File: The backup files are named in the format msgstore-YYYY-MM-DD.db.crypt12.
3. Rename the Folder: Rename the Databases folder to something like Databases_old.
4. Install WhatsApp again and go through the setup process. When prompted, allow WhatsApp to access the backup files. This will restore your messages from the local backup.

Important Tips for Future Reference

• Regularly Backup Your Data: Make it a habit to back up your WhatsApp data regularly to avoid data loss.
• Use Cloud Storage: Enable Google Drive or iCloud backup for an additional layer of security.
• Avoid Deleting Important Messages: Be cautious when deleting messages to prevent losing important information.

By following these detailed methods, you should be able to recover your deleted WhatsApp files effectively.