What is a CRYPT12 file?
A CRYPT12 file is a file format used by WhatsApp Messenger app to store encrypted message data on an Android device. The file is used to store all of the message data, including text, images, videos, and other attachments exchanged between WhatsApp users. The CRYPT12 file format is an encrypted database file that contains all of chat history for individual or group conversation in WhatsApp. The encryption key used to protect contents of CRYPT12 file is tied to specific device where the WhatsApp account is installed.
CRYPT12 File Format – More Information
To access the contents of CRYPT12 file, you need to first decrypt the file using appropriate encryption key. This can be done using a tool like WhatsApp Viewer or by manually extracting the encryption key from WhatsApp app on device where the CRYPT12 file was generated. It is important to note that attempting to decrypt someone else’s CRYPT12 file without their permission may be a violation of their privacy and may be illegal in some jurisdictions.
It is possible to find multiple CRYPT12 database files on Android device that has WhatsApp installed. Each CRYPT12 file corresponds to a specific chat or conversation in WhatsApp so if you have multiple chats with different contacts or groups, you may have multiple CRYPT12 files. By default, WhatsApp creates separate CRYPT12 file for each chat or conversation which helps to keep data organized and easier to manage.
The file names of CRYPT12 files typically correspond to phone number or name of the contact or group associated with chat. If you need to transfer your WhatsApp chat history to a new device, you can simply transfer CRYPT12 files to new device and decrypt them using appropriate encryption key. This will allow you to access your chat history on new device without losing any of your messages or attachments.