How to Read Deleted Messages on WhatsApp
Have you ever wondered
how to read deleted messages on WhatsApp after the sender revoked them? Whether it’s an accidental deletion, a lost important message, or simple curiosity, recovering deleted WhatsApp texts can feel impossible. But don’t worry—this guide breaks down
5 proven methods to retrieve erased chats using practical, user-friendly techniques. We’ll cover everything from notification previews to backups, ensuring you have the tools to recover those vanished texts.

When someone deletes a WhatsApp message, it vanishes from the chat—
but not always from your phone’s notification panel. If your device’s notifications are enabled, you might catch a glimpse of the deleted text before it’s removed. Here’s how:
- Enable “Show Notifications” in WhatsApp settings.
- Avoid opening the chat immediately if you suspect a message was deleted.
- Check your notification history (varies by device) to see if the message is still visible.
Note: This works best on Android devices with notification history turned on.
Method 2: Use a Local Backup to Restore Deleted Chats

WhatsApp automatically creates
local backups daily. If the deleted message was sent before the last backup, you can restore it:
- Uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp.
- Verify your phone number and tap “Restore” when prompted.
- Select the backup containing the deleted message.
Limitation: Backups are overwritten every 7 days. Act fast!
Method 3: Restore from Google Drive or iCloud

For those with cloud backups enabled, recovering deleted messages is possible:
- Android (Google Drive):
- Uninstall WhatsApp > Reinstall > Restore from Google Drive during setup.
- iPhone (iCloud):
- Ensure iCloud Backup is enabled in WhatsApp settings.
- Reinstall WhatsApp and restore from iCloud.
Tip: Cloud backups only work if they were created
before the message was deleted.
Method 4: Use Third-Party Apps (Proceed with Caution)
Apps like
Notification History Log or
WhatsRemoved+ can save deleted messages by tracking notifications. However:
- Risks: Third-party tools may compromise privacy or violate WhatsApp’s terms.
- Steps:
- Install a trusted notification-logging app.
- Grant necessary permissions.
- Review saved notifications for deleted messages.
Method 5: Request the Sender to Resend the Message
Sometimes, the simplest solution is to ask the sender to re-share the deleted content. Explain the situation politely—most people will oblige!
Why Can’t I Always Recover Deleted Messages?
WhatsApp’s “Delete for Everyone” feature is designed to erase messages permanently. Success depends on:
- Timing (acting before backups are overwritten).
- Device settings (notification history enabled).
- Backup availability.
FAQs: How to Read Deleted Messages on WhatsApp
Q1: Is it legal to recover deleted WhatsApp messages?
A: Yes, if you’re accessing your own chats or have the sender’s consent. Avoid unethical methods like hacking.
Q2: Do third-party apps guarantee message recovery?
A: No—many apps have limitations and security risks. Use them cautiously.
Q3: Can I recover messages deleted months ago?
A: Only if you have an old backup containing the message. Regular backups improve your chances.
Q4: Why don’t notification previews work on my iPhone?
A: iOS restricts notification history access. Android devices are more reliable for this method.