A new digital forensics demonstration shared by cybersecurity expert Nana Sei Anyemedu highlights an important distinction in how WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption works. While the platform protects messages during transmission, the recovered data shows that once content reaches a device, it is no longer shielded by encryption. This gap allows forensic tools to extract complete chat histories from unlocked or lawfully accessed smartphones.
Stored chats remain accessible on unlocked devices
The demonstration, conducted on an iPhone 16 Pro running iOS 26.1, confirms that WhatsApp stores messages and media inside local databases on the device. These include files such as msgstore.db and other SQLite database formats that retain the complete messaging timeline.
Once a device is unlocked, decrypted, or accessed using forensic tools such as Cellebrite or Oxygen, investigators can read these databases in full. The extracted information can include:
Full message timelines
Timestamps and participant details
Photos, videos, voice notes, and document attachments
Potentially recoverable deleted messages
Despite the familiar banner that reads “Messages are now secured with end-to-end encryption” at the top of every WhatsApp chat, the encryption applies only to data moving between devices—not data stored on them.
End-to-end encryption protects data in transit, not at rest
End-to-end encryption ensures that WhatsApp servers cannot intercept or read messages during transmission. Encryption keys remain solely on users’ devices. However, once a message reaches the device, it is stored locally in unencrypted form inside WhatsApp’s directories.
Forensics practitioners rely on device-level access rather than intercepting network communication. If investigators obtain lawful access—through a passcode, biometric unlock, or device backup—they can extract the full contents of WhatsApp chats without breaking the encryption protocol itself.
Why this matters for users
The findings serve as a reminder that device security plays a crucial role in messaging privacy. While WhatsApp protects communication from external interception, users must still manage risks linked to physical device access, weak passcodes, unencrypted backups, or malware.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
