How to recover deleted messages on WhatsApp on Android - briefly?
To recover deleted messages on WhatsApp on an Android device, you can use the built-in backup feature or third-party software. Regularly back up your chats to Google Drive to ensure that your messages are saved and can be restored if needed.
How to recover deleted messages on WhatsApp on Android - in detail?
Recovering deleted messages on WhatsApp for Android can be a challenging task, but there are several methods you can try. It's important to note that the success of these methods depends on various factors such as the time elapsed since deletion and whether you have backed up your data. Here’s a detailed guide to help you recover deleted WhatsApp messages on Android:
Using Google Drive Backup
If you have enabled Google Drive backup for WhatsApp, you can restore your messages from there. Follow these steps:
- Uninstall and Reinstall WhatsApp: Go to your device settings, find WhatsApp, and uninstall it. Then, go to the Google Play Store and reinstall WhatsApp.
- Set Up WhatsApp Again: Open WhatsApp and enter your phone number. When prompted, tap on "Restore" to restore your chats from the backup.
- Wait for the Restoration Process: This process may take a few minutes depending on the size of your backup. Once completed, you’ll see your restored messages.
Using Local Backup
WhatsApp also creates local backups on your device which are stored in a hidden folder. Here’s how to access them:
- File Manager: Install a file manager app from the Google Play Store if you don't have one already.
- Navigate to WhatsApp Folder: Open the file manager and navigate to
sdcard/WhatsApp/Databases
. - Find Backup Files: Look for files with names like
msgstore-YYYY-MM-DD.db.crypt12
where YYYY-MM-DD is the date of the backup. - Rename the File: Rename the file by removing
.crypt12
at the end. For example, renamemsgstore-2023-10-05.db.crypt12
tomsgstore-2023-10-05.db
. - Uninstall and Reinstall WhatsApp: Uninstall and then reinstall WhatsApp from the Google Play Store.
- Restore Messages: When prompted during setup, tap on "Restore" to restore your messages from the local backup.
Using Third-Party Software
There are third-party applications available that can help you recover deleted WhatsApp messages. However, be cautious and only use trusted software to avoid potential security risks. Some popular options include:
- Dr.Fone - Recover (WhatsApp): This tool is designed specifically for recovering WhatsApp data. Follow the instructions provided by the software to scan your device and recover deleted messages.
- Tenorshare UltData - Android Data Recovery: Another reliable option that can help you recover various types of data including WhatsApp messages.
Important Considerations
- Regular Backups: It’s crucial to regularly back up your WhatsApp chats to Google Drive or locally on your device. This ensures that even if you accidentally delete messages, you can restore them easily.
- Time Sensitivity: The sooner you attempt to recover deleted messages, the higher the chances of success. Waiting too long might overwrite the deleted data with new information.
- Data Security: When using third-party software, make sure your device is protected against malware. Only download applications from trusted sources.
By following these detailed steps and considering the important factors mentioned, you can significantly increase your chances of successfully recovering deleted WhatsApp messages on your Android device.