Did you accidentally delete an important message on Facebook Messenger? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. It happens to the best of us. Luckily, there are a few ways to recover deleted messages in Messenger.
Before diving into the recovery methods, it’s crucial to understand how Messenger handles message deletion. When you delete a message, it’s important to note that it vanishes from your own inbox but remains stored on the recipient’s device.
Method 1: Check Your Archived Chats
Messenger provides a convenient feature called “Archive” that allows you to stash away conversations without deleting them permanently. Many users mistakenly archive their chat and think it has been deleted. To access archived chats, follow these simple steps:
- Launch Messenger and navigate to the main chat screen.
- Tap on the search bar and type the name of the person or conversation you wish to retrieve.
- As you type, Messenger will suggest the archived conversation below the search bar. Tap on it to restore the chat to your inbox.
Method 2: Request A Copy Of Your Data From Facebook
If you deleted the message a while ago, or if it’s not in your archived chats, you can request a copy of your data from Facebook. This will include all of your messages, including deleted ones. To do this, follow these steps:
- Go to Facebook and log in to your account.
- Click on the down arrow in the top right corner of the page.
- Select “Settings & Privacy.”
- Click on “Settings.”
- Click on “Download your information.”
- Select the type of data you want to download. This includes messages.
- Select the date range you want to download.
- Click on “Create File.”
- Facebook will send you an email with a link to download your data.
Method 3: Exploring Third-Party Applications For Message Retrieval
In addition to the native options, several third-party applications have emerged, claiming to recover deleted messages in Messenger. While the effectiveness of these apps varies, some popular choices include iMobie PhoneRescue, Dr.Fone, and Disk Drill. Always exercise caution when using such apps and ensure you download them from trusted sources.
Method 4. Locate the Message from Cache Files (Android)
Android phones store multiple copies of data and files in temporary storage or a location called a cache so they can access these copies swiftly. Hence, using Facebook Messenger on an Android phone has the advantage of keeping a failsafe file of your chat for you. Through this file, you can see deleted messages on Messenger.
Step 1. Open the file manager app on your device. If you do not have it installed, you can download one from the Google Play Store.
Step 2. Follow this path on your phone: Internal Storage → Android → data → com.facebook.ocra → cache → fb_temp.
Step 3. You will find your recent messages, including the ones deleted.
While the recovery methods mentioned above have proven successful for many users, it’s important to keep in mind a few tips to maximize your chances of recovering deleted messages:
- Act quickly: The sooner you attempt to recover deleted messages, the higher the likelihood of success.
- Regularly back up your messages: Enabling automatic backups within Messenger or using Facebook’s download feature can help safeguard your conversations.
- Preserve storage space: Avoid filling up your device’s storage, as it could overwrite the deleted messages you’re trying to recover.
By following our tips and tricks, you’ll significantly increase your chances to see deleted messages on Messenger. Embrace the power of technology and never fear losing your conversations again.
