How to See Deleted Messages on Instagram [Ultimate Guide 2024]

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably experienced the frustration of losing important messages on Instagram. Whether it’s a heartfelt conversation with a friend or crucial details from a business chat, deleted messages can feel like a significant loss. So, how can we navigate the tricky waters of Instagram messaging to recover what’s been lost? In this ultimate guide, I’ll share various methods on how to see deleted messages on Instagram, from built-in features to handy third-party apps. Let’s dive in and explore all the options together!

How to See Deleted Messages on Instagram

Let’s explore how to navigate Instagram’s features and additional tools to help retrieve deleted messages.

Using Instagram’s Built-in Features

First things first—before we resort to any fancy tools, let’s explore Instagram’s own features. Sometimes, we think messages are gone forever when they’re actually just hiding in plain sight. When you open your Instagram app, tap the paper airplane icon (the Direct Messages icon) to go to your messages.

Pro Tip: Take your time to scroll through your conversations. You might be surprised to find that a conversation you thought was deleted is just archived or tucked away in a different thread. Instagram doesn’t have a specific “recover deleted messages” button, but being thorough in your search can yield unexpected results.

Exploring Archived Messages on Instagram

Did you know that Instagram allows us to archive conversations? This feature is a lifesaver when we want to keep our inbox neat without permanently losing important chats. Here’s how to check for archived messages:

Archived-Messages-on-Instagram
  1. Go to Your Profile: Open the Instagram app and tap on your profile icon in the bottom right corner.
  2. Access Settings: Tap on the three horizontal lines in the upper right corner, then select “Settings.”
  3. Navigate to Privacy: From there, scroll down and look for “Archived” under the “Interactions” section.

Here, you might find conversations that have been neatly stored away. It’s like finding a hidden treasure—those messages are still there, just waiting for you to unearth them! If you see a conversation you want back in your main inbox, simply swipe left on it and select “Unarchive.”

Requesting Your Data from Instagram

If your message recovery attempts are still coming up empty, don’t lose hope just yet. Instagram allows users to request a copy of their data, which can include your messages. This process might take a little time, but it’s worth it. Here’s how to do it:

Requesting-Your-Data-from-Instagram
  1. Open Settings: Go to your profile and tap on the three horizontal lines in the upper right corner.
  2. Select Security: Tap on “Security,” then look for “Download Data.”
  3. Enter Your Email: Input your email address and hit “Request Download.” Instagram will compile your data and send it to you.

Note: Keep in mind that this can take up to 48 hours, so patience is key. Once you receive your data, you can sift through it to find your messages, including those that might have been deleted.

Third-Party Apps for Seeing Deleted Messages

Now, if you really want to get serious about monitoring Instagram messages—deleted or not—consider using a phone monitoring app like FamiSpy. This tool can help you track activities on mobile devices, including social media interactions. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to see deleted messages on Instagram using FamiSpy:

FamiSpy

Step 1. Create an Account

Go to the official FamiSpy website and click on “Sign Up.”  Enter your email address and create a secure password.

famispy-sign-up

Step 2. Choose a Subscription Plan

FamiSpy offers various subscription plans—monthly, quarterly, or yearly. Choose the one that fits your needs best. 

Step 3. Install FamiSpy on the Target Device

You’ll need physical access to the phone you wish to monitor (e.g., your child’s or employee’s phone).  Follow the installation instructions provided by email, and you may need to grant specific permissions for the app to function optimally. 

famispy-select-device

Step 4. Monitor Instagram Messages

On your own device, access the FamiSpy dashboard through a web browser or mobile app. From the dashboard, find the section dedicated to social media monitoring. Click on the Instagram icon to view all conversations. FamiSpy will display current messages, including those that have been deleted.

Instagram

Step 5. Review the Messages

Within the Instagram monitoring section, you can scroll through all chats. Deleted messages will still be visible, allowing you to track important discussions. If you wish to keep a record, you can export the conversations or take screenshots for future reference.

Using FamiSpy can be a great way to keep tabs on important conversations, especially for parents wanting to monitor their children’s online activities.

Best Practices for Safeguarding Your Messages

Let’s not wait until messages go missing again! Here are some best practices I recommend to safeguard your conversations:

  • Regular Backups: Make it a habit to take screenshots or copy important messages to a notes app. This way, you’ll have a record of key conversations.
  • Utilize Archived Conversations: Instead of deleting, archive conversations that matter to you. It’s a simple way to keep your inbox tidy while preserving what’s important.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up with Instagram’s updates and new features related to messaging. The platform frequently rolls out new functionalities that can enhance your experience.
  • Use Strong Passwords: Secure your account with robust passwords and enable two-factor authentication. This extra layer of security can protect against unauthorized access.
  • Review Your Privacy Settings: Regularly check your privacy settings to control who can message you and view your information.

FAQs About Seeing Deleted Messages on Instagram

Can I recover permanently deleted messages?

Sadly, once messages are permanently deleted, they cannot be recovered through Instagram’s features. Always think twice before hitting that delete button!

Do archived messages get deleted?

Nope! Archived messages stay in your archive until you decide to delete them. They’re a great way to manage your conversations without losing anything.

Is it safe to use third-party apps for message recovery?

While some apps can be reliable, it’s crucial to do your research. Make sure you’re using a reputable app to protect your account from potential risks. Look for user reviews and expert recommendations before downloading.

How long does it take for Instagram to send my data after requesting it?

Once you request your data, Instagram typically takes up to 48 hours to compile and send it to your email. Patience is key, as this process involves a lot of data.

Are there any apps that can recover deleted Instagram messages?

While there are apps claiming to recover deleted Instagram messages, be cautious. Many may not work as advertised, and some could compromise your account security. Always opt for trusted solutions like FamiSpy for monitoring.

Conclusion

Knowing how to see deleted messages on Instagram can save us from the anxiety of losing valuable conversations. Whether you’re utilizing Instagram’s built-in features, exploring archived messages, or requesting your data, there are plenty of options available. For those willing to take it a step further, apps like FamiSpy can provide a proactive solution for monitoring messages, even those that have been deleted. By adopting these strategies and best practices, we can ensure that our important conversations remain accessible, enriching our Instagram experience for the future. So next time you think you’ve lost a message, remember that there are ways to recover what’s been lost. Happy messaging!

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Adelina

Adelina is a staff writer at FamiSpy and has been dedicated to researching and writing about tool software and apps for nearly ten years. In her daily life, she enjoys traveling and running.

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