How to Permanently Delete Texts on an iPhone: A Comprehensive Guide

Deleting text messages from an iPhone can sometimes be a tricky process, especially if you want to ensure that the messages are permanently deleted and cannot be recovered by anyone, not even law enforcement. This guide will walk you through the process of using third-party software to wipe out text messages, as well as show you the simple in-app deletion methods.

Data Eraser for Permanent Message Deletion

Data Eraser is a powerful tool that can help you permanently erase text messages from your iPhone without affecting your iCloud account. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use it:

Step 1: Install and Launch the Data Eraser on Your Computer

To start, download and install Data Eraser on your computer. Once installed, launch the program.

Step 2: Connect Your iPhone to Your Computer

Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable. Make sure your iPhone is unlocked and the program has permission to access your device.

Step 3: Delete Text Messages

In the Data Eraser interface, select the option to permanently delete text messages on your iPhone. The program will begin to scan your device for text messages. During this process, wait until the scan is complete.

Once the scan is finished, the program will display all the text messages that will be deleted. Review them to ensure you are deleting the correct messages. Click on the Erase from the Device option. The program will ask for a confirmation by typing the word Delete. Enter the word and click on the Confirm button to proceed with the deletion.

After the process is complete, you will see a confirmation window indicating that the messages have been permanently deleted. Even the FBI will be unable to recover these messages.

Deleting Texts Directly from the iPhone

If you prefer not to use third-party software, you can also delete text messages directly from the iPhone app. Here are the steps for both iOS 14 and newer versions, as well as older versions:

For iOS 14 and Newer Versions:

Type your finger or stylus onto and hold the message you want to delete. The message will be highlighted with a checkmark appearing to the left. You will see a list of options below, including emoji-style response stickers, and below that, four items—Reply, Copy, Translate, More, which is represented by three dots in a circle. Tap on More... to see a list of your messages with a checkmark to the left of each. Highlight the messages you want to delete by tapping on the checkmark, and an Archive button will appear. Tap on Archive to permanently delete the messages.

For Older Versions:

To delete a text message directly from the iPhone, swipe finnely from right to left on the message you want to delete. A delete button will appear. Tap on it to confirm the deletion.

To undo a deletion, simply swipe left on the archived message and tap on Migrate to restore it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can anyone still access deleted text messages?

No, using third-party software like Data Eraser ensures that the text messages are permanently deleted and cannot be retrieved by anyone, including law enforcement.

Q: Is Data Eraser free?

Data Eraser may be available for free or at a fee. Ensure to check the available options and subscription plans before downloading.

Q: Does deleting text messages affect iCloud backups?

No, third-party software like Data Eraser does not affect your iCloud backups. Your data on iCloud remains intact.

Conclusion

Deleting text messages from an iPhone can be crucial for privacy and security reasons. Whether you use third-party software like Data Eraser or directly delete messages from your iPhone, it's important to choose a method that ensures the messages are permanently erased.