If you want to view deleted messages sent by someone else, there are a few methods you can consider. Here’s a guide that covers these options effectively.
WhatsApp provides a feature that allows users to delete their messages, but this often leaves the recipient wondering what the message contains.
Method 1: Use Notification History on Android
If you’re using an Android device, you can utilize the notification history feature (available in Android 11 and later) to view deleted messages:
- Enable Notification History:
- Open your Settings.
- Go to Apps & Notifications or just Notifications, depending on your device.
- Look for Notification history and turn it on.
- Check Notification History:
- After enabling this feature, WhatsApp notifications will be recorded.
- When the sender deletes a message, you can still access the notification history. Open Settings > Notifications > Notification history to see a log of received notifications, including deleted WhatsApp messages.
Method 2: Use a Third-Party App
For Android users not on Android 11 or those looking for more robust functionality, third-party apps can help you track notifications:
- Download a Notification Tracker:
- Install an app like Notisave or Notification History Log from the Google Play Store.
- Set Up the App:
- Grant the app the necessary permissions to access notifications.
- Once set up, these apps will log all notifications, including those from WhatsApp.
- View Deleted Messages:
- Even if the sender deletes the message, it will be saved in the app’s notification history. Open the app to see the content of deleted messages.
Note: Remember that this option may not work if you were online at the time the message was sent since WhatsApp may not notify you if you have already read it.
Method 3: Backup and Restore (Limited Use)
This method is more reliable for recovering your own messages rather than those sent by others, but it’s worth mentioning:
- Backup Messages:
- Ensure that you have WhatsApp backups enabled (Google Drive for Android, iCloud for iPhone).
- Restore Previous Backup:
- The process involves uninstalling WhatsApp and then reinstalling it to restore from a backup. This typically will not help with deleted messages from other users but is good for recovering your own conversations.
Method 4: Ask the Sender
While it might seem straightforward, sometimes the simplest solution is to ask the sender about the deleted message. If it’s important, they may be willing to share the information again.
Key Considerations
- Privacy: Respecting privacy is important. Only utilize these methods for legitimate reasons.
- Limitations: Many apps that claim to recover deleted messages may not work as advertised or could scramble text if the message was quite long.
- iPhone Users: Unfortunately, iOS has more restrictions, and you cannot access deleted messages without a third-party tracking app or asking the sender.
FAQs
Can I recover other people’s deleted messages?
It’s challenging to recover deleted messages sent by others without the use of third-party apps. The primary methods revolve around accessing notification history.
Is it legal to use a third-party app for this purpose?
Using third-party apps is generally legal, but you should be aware of privacy implications and always use such tools responsibly and ethically.
What’s the Time Limit to Delete a WhatsApp Message?
WhatsApp allows users up to 60 hours to delete messages using the ‘Delete for everyone’ option, applicable for individual and group chats.
How to See WhatsApp Deleted Media Files?
To recover deleted media files on WhatsApp, enable the “automatically save images to gallery” setting within the app. This will store media files locally, even if they’re removed from chats.
