What is a CRYPT13 File?

A .crypt13 file is an encrypted backup of WhatsApp messages stored on Android devices. WhatsApp periodically creates these backups to help users restore their chat history if they reinstall the app or switch devices.

• File Type: WhatsApp chat database backup
• Encryption: AES-256 encryption
• File Name: msgstore.db.crypt13
• Storage Path:

  /sdcard/WhatsApp/Databases/msgstore.db.crypt13
  

  (Or /storage/emulated/0/WhatsApp/Databases/ in newer Android versions.)

Encryption Details

WhatsApp encrypts chat backups using AES-256 and stores the encryption key separately on the device.

• Key Location:

  /data/data/com.whatsapp/files/key
  

  (Accessing this file requires root privileges on Android.)

Since the key is stored separately, a CRYPT13 file cannot be decrypted without it.

How to Open or Restore CRYPT13 Files?

Method 1: Restore via WhatsApp (Official Way)

1. Uninstall WhatsApp from your phone.
2. Reinstall WhatsApp and verify your phone number.
3. WhatsApp will detect the backup and prompt you to restore it.
4. Tap Restore, and your messages will be recovered.

Method 2: Manually Extract & Read the Backup (Requires Decryption Key) If you want to manually access your chat database:

Step 1: Get the Encryption Key (Root Access Required)

• Root your Android device.
• Use a file manager or ADB command:

  adb shell
  su
  cp /data/data/com.whatsapp/files/key /sdcard/Download/key
  

Step 2: Decrypt the CRYPT13 File

• Use WhatsApp Viewer or a Python decryption script:

  python decrypt12.py msgstore.db.crypt13 key decrypted.db
  

Step 3: Open the Decrypted Database

• Once decrypted, the msgstore.db file is in SQLite format.
• Open it with DB Browser for SQLite to view messages.

Method 3: Convert CRYPT13 to Another Format Once decrypted, the .db file can be:

• Opened in an SQLite viewer.
• Exported to CSV or JSON using SQLite commands.

Evolution of WhatsApp Backup Encryption

FAQs

Q: Can I open CRYPT13 without a key?
A: No, you need the encryption key from your phone to decrypt it.

Q: Can I use online tools to decrypt CRYPT13 files?
A: Be cautious—many online tools are scams and may contain malware.

Q: What happens if I delete a CRYPT13 file?
A: You may lose your chat history unless you have a Google Drive backup.

References

• WhatsApp