Google: Restore Chat Messages After Deletion

Environment

U-M Google, Chat

Issue

Can Google Chat messages be restored after they're permanently deleted?

Resolution

  • It is not possible to recover a deleted Google Chat message. Before deletion, you would have received a warning: "Deleting a conversation from your history is permanent. Other participants can still view this conversation."
    • You may not have received this warning if you or another member of the conversation/space has turned chat history OFF for that chat, which deletes all chat messages after 24 hours for everyone.
  • If you are interested in retaining a specific message's content after deletion, reach out to another individual in the conversation and ask if they can copy and paste the message to you (since it's retained on their end).

Additional Information

Google Help Center | Edit or delete a message in Google Chat

Need additional information or assistance? Contact the ITS Service Center.

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