How to unlock a number in WhatsApp if the number is deleted - briefly?
If you've accidentally deleted a contact on WhatsApp and need to restore it, there are a few steps you can take. First, check your recent calls or messages for the number in question. Alternatively, if you have backed up your contacts to Google Drive or iCloud, you can restore them from there.
How to unlock a number in WhatsApp if the number is deleted - in detail?
Unlocking a number in WhatsApp after it has been deleted can be challenging, but with the right steps and precautions, it is possible. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process:
Understanding the Issue
When a phone number is deleted from WhatsApp, the account associated with that number becomes inactive. However, WhatsApp does not immediately delete user data. The account remains linked to your phone number for a certain period before it gets permanently removed. This window of opportunity allows you to potentially reactivate your account.
Steps to Unlock Your Number
1. Check the Status of Your Account
- Inactive Account: If your account is inactive, you may still have the chance to restore it within a certain time frame (usually up to 30 days). After this period, WhatsApp will delete the account permanently.
- Deleted Account: If your account has been deleted and more than 30 days have passed, recovering your number becomes significantly harder, but not impossible in all cases.
2. Reinstall WhatsApp
If you have accidentally deleted WhatsApp from your phone:
- Download and install the latest version of WhatsApp from the Google Play Store (for Android) or the App Store (for iOS).
- Open the app and follow the initial setup process to verify your number.
3. Verify Your Phone Number
During the setup, you will be prompted to enter your phone number. If WhatsApp detects that your account is inactive but not yet deleted:
- You will receive a verification code via SMS.
- Enter the code in the app to restore your account.
4. Contact WhatsApp Support
If you cannot verify your number because it has been more than 30 days since deletion or if you encounter any issues:
- Go to WhatsApp’s official website and navigate to the support section.
- Fill out the contact form with as many details as possible, including your phone number, the date when the account was deleted, and any other relevant information.
- Submit the form and wait for a response from WhatsApp Support. They may be able to assist you in reactivating your account.
5. Consider Alternative Solutions
In cases where WhatsApp Support is unable to help:
- Backup: If you have previously backed up your WhatsApp data, you can restore it on a new number. This will not unlock the original number but will allow you to access your messages and media.
- New Account: Create a new account with a different phone number. While this does not unlock the deleted number, it provides a fresh start with all the features of WhatsApp.
Preventive Measures
To avoid losing access to your WhatsApp account in the future:
- Regularly back up your chats and media.
- Keep your contact information updated within WhatsApp settings.
- Be cautious when deleting accounts or changing phone numbers to prevent accidental loss of data.
By following these steps, you can increase your chances of unlocking a number in WhatsApp even if the number has been deleted. Always remember that prompt action and careful management of your account information are key to successful recovery.