How to recover WhatsApp chat history if there was no backup - briefly?
If you haven't backed up your WhatsApp chats and need to recover them, the best course of action is to use a professional data recovery service or software. These specialized tools can often retrieve lost data from your device even without a prior backup.
How to recover WhatsApp chat history if there was no backup - in detail?
Recovering WhatsApp chat history without a prior backup can be challenging, but several methods can be employed to potentially retrieve lost data. The most effective solutions involve third-party software or utilizing built-in features of the device and WhatsApp itself.
Method 1: Use Third-Party Software
Several third-party applications are designed specifically for recovering lost WhatsApp messages. These tools scan the device's storage for any remnants of deleted data and can often retrieve messages, photos, videos, and other attachments. Some popular options include Dr.Fone - Recover (WhatsApp), Tenorshare UltData, and EaseUS MobiSaver.
- Download and Install: Visit the official website of your chosen software and download the appropriate version for your device's operating system.
- Connect Your Device: Use a USB cable to connect your phone or tablet to your computer.
- Scan for Data: Launch the software and follow the on-screen instructions to scan your device for lost WhatsApp data.
- Preview and Recover: After the scan is complete, preview the recovered messages and choose which ones you want to restore.
Method 2: Use Google Drive Backup (for Android)
If you have previously backed up your WhatsApp data to Google Drive but haven't created a local backup on your device, you can still recover your chat history by restoring from the cloud.
- Uninstall and Reinstall WhatsApp: Uninstall WhatsApp from your device and then reinstall it from the Google Play Store.
- Verify Your Number: Open WhatsApp and follow the on-screen instructions to verify your phone number.
- Restore from Backup: When prompted, choose the option to restore your chat history from Google Drive. This process will download all your backed-up messages to your device.
Method 3: Use iCloud Backup (for iOS)
Similar to Android, if you have previously backed up your WhatsApp data to iCloud but haven't created a local backup on your device, you can restore your chat history from the cloud.
- Uninstall and Reinstall WhatsApp: Uninstall WhatsApp from your iPhone and then reinstall it from the App Store.
- Verify Your Number: Open WhatsApp and follow the on-screen instructions to verify your phone number.
- Restore from Backup: When prompted, choose the option to restore your chat history from iCloud. This process will download all your backed-up messages to your device.
Method 4: Check for Local Backups
WhatsApp automatically creates local backups of your chat history on both Android and iOS devices. These backups are stored in specific folders within the device's internal storage or SD card (for Android).
- Locate the Backup Folder: On Android, the WhatsApp backup folder is typically located at
/sdcard/WhatsApp/Databases. On iOS, it can be found within the iCloud Drive app underWhatsApp/Databases. - Rename the Backup File: Locate the most recent backup file (it will have a .db or .crypt12 extension) and rename it to
msgstore.dbfor Android orChatStorage.sqlitefor iOS. - Reinstall WhatsApp: Uninstall and then reinstall WhatsApp on your device.
- Restore from Backup: When prompted during the setup process, choose the option to restore your chat history from the local backup.
Method 5: Contact WhatsApp Support
If all else fails, you can contact WhatsApp support for assistance. While they may not be able to directly recover lost messages, they can provide guidance and troubleshoot any issues related to your account or device.
- Visit the Help Center: Go to the WhatsApp Help Center (help.whatsapp.com).
- Submit a Request: Click on "Contact Us" and submit a request detailing your issue and the steps you have already taken to try and recover your chat history.
- Follow Up: Wait for a response from WhatsApp support and follow any instructions they provide.
Recovering WhatsApp chat history without a backup can be complex, but by utilizing third-party software or leveraging built-in features of your device and cloud storage services, you may still be able to retrieve your lost messages. It is always recommended to regularly back up your WhatsApp data to prevent such losses in the future.