What is a CRYPT15 file?

The .crypt15 file format is associated with WhatsApp’s encrypted backup files stored on Google Drive or local storage. It is part of the WhatsApp Crypt series (e.g., .crypt14, .crypt12, etc.), which encrypts chat backups for security.

Key Details About .crypt15 Files

  • Used by: WhatsApp to store chat backups securely.
  • Encryption: End-to-end encrypted using a key stored in the phone’s internal memory.
  • Storage Locations:
    • Local Storage: /sdcard/WhatsApp/Databases/msgstore.db.crypt15
    • Google Drive (if cloud backup is enabled).
  • Decryption Requirement: Requires the correct decryption key, which is typically stored in /data/data/com.whatsapp/files/key (root access is needed to retrieve it).

How to Open or Decrypt .crypt15 Files

To open or decrypt .crypt15 files, you need:

  1. A backup file (msgstore.db.crypt15).
  2. The decryption key (from internal storage).
  3. A decryption tool like WhatsApp Viewer or custom scripts that use the key.

Converting .crypt15 to Readable Format

  • If you have the decryption key:
    • Use third-party tools like WhatsApp Viewer (for older versions).
    • Use a Python script (if you understand cryptography and Android forensics).

References