Okay, let’s look at the options for retrieving deleted WhatsApp messages on an iPhone, especially after an unsuccessful iCloud restore attempt. Since you’re both okay with accessing each other’s apps, we can explore some more direct methods.
Here’s a breakdown of what I’ve found, step by step:
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Check WhatsApp’s Built-In Backup:
- First, ensure that WhatsApp’s local backup is enabled. Go to WhatsApp > Settings > Chats > Chat Backup. Check the frequency of backups (daily, weekly, etc.).
- If backups are enabled, uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp. During setup, it should prompt you to restore your chat history from the latest backup. Since the iCloud restore didn’t work, this might offer a different backup version that contains the messages.
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Use Third-Party Data Recovery Tools:
- There are several third-party data recovery tools specifically designed for iOS devices. These tools scan your iPhone’s storage for recoverable data.
- Popular options include iMobie PhoneRescue, Dr.Fone, or Tenorshare UltData.
- Download and install one of these tools on your computer. Connect your iPhone and follow the tool’s instructions to scan for deleted WhatsApp messages. Note that the success rate can vary depending on how long ago the messages were deleted and whether new data has overwritten them.
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Check iTunes Backup (if available):
- If you’ve previously backed up your iPhone to iTunes (or Finder on newer macOS versions), you can attempt to restore from that backup.
- Connect your iPhone to your computer, open iTunes (or Finder), and select “Restore Backup.”
- Choose a backup that predates the deletion of the WhatsApp messages. Note that restoring from an iTunes backup will overwrite all current data on your iPhone, so back up your current data first.
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Examine Potential Forensic Solutions
- For more advanced retrieval, consider forensic software. Tools like Cellebrite or Oxygen Forensic offer deep dives into device data, often used in law enforcement and digital forensics.
- Be aware these are not typical consumer tools; they are often expensive and require technical expertise.
- They directly examine the iPhone’s storage, potentially retrieving fragments or unindexed data.
By following these steps, you might be able to recover those important deleted WhatsApp messages. Keep in mind that the older the messages are and the more the phone has been used since their deletion, the lower the chances of a successful recovery.