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iPhone Hacks to See Deleted Messages Easily: 8 Powerful Hacks That Work

Liam Wellendorf
Liam Wellendorf
Apr 11, 2025

Ever accidentally deleted an important text and panicked? You’re not alone. Many iPhone users search for an iPhone hack to see deleted messages or wonder if they can retrieve deleted texts.

iPhone Hack to See Deleted Messages

While Apple provides a few recovery options, they have limitations. Fortunately, there are 8proven ways to recover deleted messages on an iPhone, which we will discuss in this article.

Is It Possible to See Deleted Messages on an iPhone?

Yes, it is possible to see deleted messages on an iPhone—but there are a few conditions. If you're wondering why can't I see recently deleted messages on iPhone, it usually comes down to several key factors:

  • iOS Version: Newer versions of iOS (starting from iOS 16) include a "Recently Deleted" folder in the Messages app, which stores deleted texts for up to 30 days. If you're using an older iOS version, this feature might not be available.
  • iCloud & iTunes Backups: If messages were backed up before deletion, they can often be restored by accessing an older backup through iCloud or iTunes. However, this requires full device restoration.
  • Message Settings: iPhones set to automatically delete messages after 30 days or 1 year might remove them permanently without storing them in "Recently Deleted".

So yes, it’s possible—but success depends on the method you use and how the device is set up.

8 iPhone Hacks to See Deleted Messages

Think your deleted iPhone texts are gone for good? Not quite. Thanks to iOS features and clever recovery tricks, there are several ways you can bring back those lost conversations. Below are eight powerful hacks you can try to see deleted messages.

1. Using SafeMyKid – The Best iPhone Hacking Tool

SafeMyKid iPhone Hacker

SafeMyKid is the top solution for parents and users who want a reliable way to see deleted messages on an iPhone.

Unlike Apple’s built-in options, which are limited to specific circumstances like iCloud backups, SafeMyKid offers real-time monitoring and text recovery without needing any backups.

This makes it an ideal choice for those who want continuous access to deleted messages without the limitations or complexities of traditional recovery methods.

Sign Up Free View Demo

Why Choose SafeMyKid iPhone Hacker to See Deleted Messages

Whether you’re a parent, guardian, or simply trying to recover lost messages, SafeMyKid provides reliable, real-time access to deleted text messages—without needing to jailbreak the iPhone or rely on outdated backups.

Key features for iPhone message recovery include:

  • Real-time Recovery:Retrieves deleted iMessages and SMS texts instantly, even if they've been removed from the "Recently Deleted" folder.
  • Remote Access:Once connected, you can monitor messages from any device using the SafeMyKid dashboard—no need to touch the iPhone again.
  • No Installation on iPhone:Works via iCloud sync, so you don’t have to install anything directly on the iPhone (ideal for stealth and convenience).
  • Full Conversation View:See message threads, timestamps, contact names, and deleted replies with context.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility:Monitor from Android, PC, or Mac—SafeMyKid makes it easy to stay informed anytime, anywhere.
  • Secure & Encrypted:All data transmission is encrypted, keeping your access private and safe.

How to Set up SafeMyKid iPhone Hacker to See Deleted Messages

Setting up SafeMyKid is quick, secure and doesn’t require jailbreaking or direct access to an iPhone. Whether you're retrieving deleted messages from an iPhone or an Android device, SafeMyKid offers a streamlined setup process for both platforms.

Sign Up Free View Demo

Step 1. Sign up and create your account.

Sign up and Create Your Account

Step 2. Enter the Apple ID credentials associated with the target iPhone.

Enter The Target Apple ID Credentials

Step 3. Hack iPhone to see deleted messages directly from your dashboard.

Hack iPhone to See Deleted Messages

2. Using the "Recently Deleted" Folder (iOS 16+)

Using The Recently Deleted Folder

With the release of iOS 16, Apple introduced a Recently Deleted folder in the Messages app, allowing users to recover deleted texts within 30 to 40 days before they are permanently erased.

This feature provides a safety net for accidental message deletions, making text recovery much easier.

How to Use It:

  1. Open the Messages app on your iPhone.
  2. Tap Edit in the top-left corner and select Show Recently Deleted.
  3. Find the message and tap Recover to restore it.

Pros:

  1. No need for backups or third-party tools.
  2. Easy and quick method.

Cons:

  1. Works only for iOS 16+ users.
  2. Deleted messages are permanently erased after 30 days.

3. Restoring from an iCloud Backup

Restoring from an iCloud Backup

If you consistently back up your iPhone using iCloud, there’s a high chance you can recover deleted messages—provided they were included in your most recent backup.

By restoring your device from an iCloud backup created before the messages were deleted, you can retrieve lost texts effectively.

Steps:

  1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
  2. Restart the iPhone and choose Restore from iCloud Backup during setup.
  3. Select a backup that was created before the messages were deleted.

Pros:

  1. Free and Apple-supported method.
  2. Restores all deleted messages.

Cons:

  1. You lose data added after the last backup.
  2. Requires a full reset.

4. Restoring from an iTunes/Finder Backup

Restoring from an iTunes Backup

For iPhone users who back up their devices using iTunes (on Windows) or Finder (on macOS), restoring from a previous backup can be an effective way to recover deleted messages.

By selecting a backup made before the messages were deleted, you can restore your iPhone to its previous state, including the recovered texts. This method ensures that even messages lost without cloud backups can be retrieved as long as a suitable backup exists.

Steps:

  1. Connect your iPhone to a Mac/PC and open iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac).
  2. Click Restore Backup and choose a backup that includes the deleted messages.
  3. Wait for the restore process to complete.

Pros:

  1. No need for third-party tools.
  2. Restores lost texts if they were in the backup.

Cons:

  1. Cannot recover messages deleted after the last backup.
  2. Overwritecurrent data.

5. Checking Linked Apple Devices

Checking Linked Apple Devices

If the target iPhone is synced with an iPad or Mac, there’s a possibility that deleted messages might still be accessible on those devices.

This is because iMessages and SMS messages can sync across multiple Apple devices using the same Apple ID, allowing messages to remain visible even after being deleted from the iPhone itself.

How to Check:

  1. Open the Messages app on a linked device.
  2. Scroll through the chat history to find deleted messages.

Pros:

  1. No need for additional software or tools.
  2. It mayshow older messages that were deleted from the iPhone.
  3. Quick access if you already have access to the synced device.

Cons:

  1. Only works if message syncing was enabled before deletion.
  2. Won’t show messages deleted from all synced devices.
  3. Requires physical access to the paired iPad or Mac.

6. Requesting Messages from The Other Person

Requesting Message from The Other Person

If an iPhone has deleted messages from one person, the other person in the conversation might still have a copy of those messages.

This is especially true if the person has not deleted their own copy or if the messages are stored in iCloud or other cloud services. Additionally, if iMessages are synced across devices, the other person may have the messages stored on their Mac, iPad, or another iPhone.

What to Do:

  1. Ask the person to forward or screenshot the messages.
  2. If using iMessage, check if the messages were deleted from both sides.

Pros:

  1. Completely legal and ethical (with the other person’s consent).
  2. No software, installation, or technical skills are
  3. Often the quickest way to retrieve specific deleted messages.

Cons:

  1. It reliesentirely on the other person’s willingness to help.
  2. Won’t work if they’ve also deleted the conversation.
  3. Not suitable for private or sensitive investigations.

7. Checking Cloud Services

Checking Cloud Services

Some users unknowingly sync their messages to cloud services like Google Drive or iCloud Messages Sync, which can result in deleted messages still being recoverable.

These services automatically back up text messages, ensuring that even if a message is deleted from the device, it might still exist in the cloud.

Steps to Check:

  1. Sign in to iCloud.com and look for message backups.
  2. If using Google, check Google Drive backups.

Pros:

  1. Recovery of deleted messages
  2. Automatic backup
  3. Cross-device sync

Cons:

  1. Privacy concerns
  2. Storage limits
  3. No guarantee of complete deletion

8. Contacting Your Phone Carrier

Contacting Your Phone Carrier

Phone carriers such as AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile may retain message logs for a limited period, which can potentially include records of deleted text messages.

While these logs generally contain information like the time, date, and phone numbers involved in the conversation, they might not include the actual content of the messages.

How to Request:

  1. Call customer support and request the message history.
  2. Some carriers may provide records if legally required.

Pros:

  1. Record retention
  2. Potential legal support
  3. Non-technical option

Cons:

  1. Limited information
  2. Retention period
  3. Possible legal hurdles
  4. Carrier policies vary

When Is It Okay to Use iPhone Hacks to See Deleted Messages?

When Is It Okay to Use These Methods

Before trying to retrieve or view deleted messages, it’s crucial to consider both the ethical implications and legal boundaries of such actions. Not all scenarios justify the use of message recovery tools or monitoring software.

However, there are situations where these methods are considered acceptable or even necessary:

  • You accidentally deleted an important conversation: Whether it’s a work-related text, legal info, or sentimental message, recovering it is entirely justifiable.
  • You're a parent monitoring your child’s messages: Wondering Can parents see deleted text messages on iPhone? Yes, with parental control tools like SafeMyKid, it's possible. Monitoring your child’s activity is often encouraged for their digital safety, especially in cases involving cyberbullying, online predators, or inappropriate content.
  • You're involved in a legal investigation or dispute: In some legal cases, retrieving deleted texts may be necessary to provide evidence or support a claim. This is typically done under proper legal authorization.
  • The device belongs to you: If you’re trying to recover deleted messages from your own iPhone or a device you legally own (like a company-issued phone), you’re well within your rights.
  • Important Reminder: Trying to view someone else’s deleted messages without their consent—even with advanced tools—may violate privacy laws, depending on your location. Always be sure you have a legal or ethical justification before proceeding.

FAQs on iPhone Hack to See Deleted Messages

If you're looking for ways to recover deleted messages on an iPhone, you might have some questions. Below are some common inquiries regarding iPhone hacks for seeing deleted messages, along with their answers to guide you.

1. What is the best iPhone hack to see deleted messages?

The best iPhone hack to see deleted messages depends on the situation. If you're using iOS 16 or later, the Recently Deleted folder is the easiest option. If you don’t have a backup, a monitoring tool like SafeMyKid can help retrieve lost texts without needing physical access to the device.

2. How to see someone's deleted messages on iPhone without them knowing?

To see someone's deleted messages on an iPhone, you need access to their iCloud backups or a monitoring app like SafeMyKid. SafeMyKid allows parents or guardians to monitor texts without notifying the user, making it an effective tool for message recovery and child safety.

3. Can the other person see deleted messages on iMessage after I delete them?

No, once you delete an iMessage, it is removed from your device. However, can the other person see deleted messages on iMessage? Only if they haven’t deleted the conversation on their end. iMessage does not notify the recipient when messages are deleted.

4. Why can't I see deleted messages on iPhone even after checking backups?

Many users ask, why can't I see deleted messages on iPhone? The reason might be:

  • The messages were not included in the last backup.
  • The backup was overwritten by a more recent one.
  • You did not enable iCloud Messages Sync, which prevents messages from being backed up.

5. How to tell if someone deleted messages on their phone?

If you're wondering how to tell if someone deleted messages on iPhone, look for these clues:

  • Gaps in conversation history where messages should be.
  • Sudden missing timestamps in a chat.
  • If using a linked Apple device (Mac, iPad), check to see if older messages are still visible.

6. What should I do if my iPhone deletes all messages suddenly?

If you find that iPhone deleted all messages, try these solutions:

  • Check Recently Deleted (iOS 16+).
  • Restore from an iCloud or iTunes backup.
  • If messages were erased by a software bug, update the iOS and restart the device.
  • Use SafeMyKid or a data recovery tool if no backup is available.

7. Can parents see deleted text messages on iPhones without a backup?

Yes, can parents see deleted text messages on iPhone? They can if they use SafeMyKid. This tool allows parents to monitor and recover deleted texts without needing access to iCloud backups or physical devices, ensuring child safety online.

8. How to see if someone deleted text messages on an iPhone?

To see if someone deleted text messages on an iPhone, you can:

  • Check their device’s Recently Deleted folder (if on iOS 16+).
  • Compare chat history on a linked Mac or iPad.
  • Ask the person directly if they deleted messages.
  • Use SafeMyKid for real-time monitoring of deleted texts.

Conclusion

iPhone hack to see deleted messages is possible using various methods. Apple provides official recovery options, but they have limitations.

SafeMyKid is the best solution for monitoring and recovering deleted messages without restoring backups. If you accidentally delete important texts, SafeMyKid will help you retrieve them.

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