Understanding how deleting messages works in WhatsApp
Since the launch of the “Delete for Everyone” feature, WhatsApp has set a time limit of 1 hour, 8 minutes and 16 seconds for deleting messages and media. This limit aims to maintain user privacy, but at the same time, avoid excessive manipulation of conversation history.
However, There are ways to delete photos after the time limit has passed. Below we will discuss methods to address this problem.
Delete photos by altering the device's date and time
This is a method that involves tricking the WhatsApp application by manually adjusting the date and time on your mobile device. Follow these steps to delete a photo after hours using this technique:
- Disable your device's internet connection (Wi-Fi and mobile data).
- Open your device's settings and change the date and time to a time when you could still have deleted the photo on WhatsApp.
- Open WhatsApp and go to the conversation where the photo you want to delete is located.
- Select the photo and delete it using the “Delete for everyone” option.
- Once the deletion is confirmed, reactivate your device's internet connection and reset the date and time to the current value.
Please note that this method is not foolproof and sometimes the removal may not be successful. Besides, Using this trick may violate WhatsApp terms and conditions.
Delete photos using third-party applications
There are third-party applications that can offer additional features to WhatsApp, such as deleting messages after hours. However, these apps often have security risks as they require access to your personal information and are not authorized by WhatsApp.
It is recommended to use third-party applications only if you fully trust the developer and are aware of the associated risks.. Also, remember that the use of unauthorized applications may result in the suspension of your WhatsApp account.
Delete photos using conversation backups
Another option to delete a photo on WhatsApp after hours is to restore a backup of your conversation history. To carry out this process, follow these steps:
- Uninstall WhatsApp from your device.
- Reinstall WhatsApp and follow the instructions to set up your account.
- When prompted, select the option to restore a backup of your conversations.
- Wait for the restoration process to complete and check if the photo is no longer in the corresponding conversation.
This process deletes the photo for you, but keep in mind that will not delete the photo for other conversation participants.
Send a deletion request to recipients
If you can't delete a photo using the methods above or simply prefer a more ethical and secure approach, you can ask message recipients to delete the photo on their own.
Although it's not a guarantee that the photo will be deleted completely, in many cases, recipients will respect your wish to delete it.
Protecting against accidentally sending photos in the future
The best solution to avoid late regrets is to be aware of what we share on WhatsApp. Some precautions you can take are:
- Review the content carefully before sending it.
- Do not share compromising or sensitive information.
- Use the pop-up preview feature for received images and videos.
- Set additional passwords or authentication measures in the application.
In short, although deleting WhatsApp photos for everyone after hours can be complicated and risky, there are several methods and tricks available. However, prevention and prudence when sharing content are key to avoiding regrets and problems in the future.
