Open WhatsApp
Tap the chat you want to retrieve
Use the search bar to find a contact or message
Check Archived Chats
Restore chats from a backup if needed
On Android, reinstall WhatsApp and verify your number to restore from Google Drive backup
On iPhone, reinstall WhatsApp and verify your number to restore from iCloud backup
Make sure the backup is linked to the same phone number and account
Check local backups on Android if Google Drive backup is unavailable
Use WhatsApp Web or linked devices to view synced chats
Contact the chat participant if the messages are no longer available on your device