Can't remember password for encrypted backup
To provide an additional layer of security, WhatsApp protects end-to-end encrypted backups with a password or 64-digit encryption key. This password or key is the only way for you to access your encrypted backup or transfer it to a new device.
Change your password
You can change the password for your encrypted backup even if you can’t remember your old password.
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Chats > Chat Backup > End-to-end encrypted backup > Change Password.
- Tap I forgot my password, then verify your identity with your biometrics or device PIN.
- Create a new password for your backup.
Turn off end-to-end encrypted backup
If you can’t remember your password, you can turn off end-to-end encrypted backup.
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Chats > Chat Backup > End-to-end encrypted backup > Turn Off.
- Tap I forgot my password, then verify your identity with your biometrics or device PIN.
- Tap Turn off > Done.
You can turn on end-to-end encrypted backup at any time.
If you don’t have access to your WhatsApp chats
If you can’t remember your password and don’t have access to your WhatsApp chats, you won’t be able to access your backup. WhatsApp can’t reset your password or help restore your backup.
Password attempts
You can attempt to enter your password or key a total of five times. After five incorrect tries, you’ll have to wait before you can try again.
If you don’t restore your backup
If you choose to use WhatsApp without restoring a backup, that backup will still be available for you to access if you choose to reinstall WhatsApp on another device.
Related resources:
- About end-to-end encrypted backup
- How to turn on and turn off end-to-end encrypted backup