How to stop WhatsApp backup – our guide for Android and iOS
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If, for some reason, you don’t want to back up your WhatsApp very frequently, then we have created a guide on how to stop it right here.
Now, by default, WhatsApp backups happen automatically every day. Depending on the device you use, the backup makes its way to iCloud or Google Drive. Now, you might not want a WhatsApp backup due to storage problems or privacy issues. Whatever the reason, you can stop that backup – and it’s a relatively simple process.
Before you jump in and stop WhatsApp from backing up your files, we recommend you have a copy of the backup in case you lose your data. For instance, if you want to change your number on WhatsApp and set it up on a new phone, you might need the data.
With that being said, we have put together this guide to help you turn the WhatsApp backup off on Android devices as well as iOS.
How to stop WhatsApp backup on Android
Step
Go to Settings
Launch WhatsApp on your Android phone, tap on the three dots in the top right corner, and click on ‘Settings’
Step
Head over to ‘Chats’
In Settings, find the ‘Chats’ tab and click on it. Here, you will see all the chat-related settings, including the chat backup.
Step
Turn off the backup
In Chats, find and click on ‘Chats Backup.’ In this menu, you will see a ‘Backup to Google Drive’ option – tap on it. Now, you will be prompted to choose a backup frequency. If you don’t want a backup at all, then you can select ‘Never.’
However, if you want a backup when you prefer, you can consider clicking on ‘Only when I tap back up’
How to stop WhatsApp backup on iPhone
Step
Open WhatsApp settings
Open WhatsApp and head over to the Settings menu. In iPhones, the Settings can be accessed by clicking on the ‘Settings’ icon at the bottom right corner.
Step
Head over to Chat settings
In the Settings menu, find and click open the Chat settings. Then tap on the Chat Backup option.
Step
Toggle the Auto Backup option off
In the Chat Backup tab, you will see an Auto Backup option – tap on it. You will then be prompted to select the frequency of the backup – daily, weekly, monthly, and off. To stop WhatsApp backup completely, select the ‘Off’ option.
Step
Turn off iCloud sync
Next, head over to your general iPhone settings and tap on your Apple ID. Here, click on iCloud and find WhatsApp under the ‘Apps using iCloud’ section (click on Show All’ if you can’t see WhatsApp in the first few options). Once you find WhatsApp, toggle the sync switch to off.
Please note that not all iPhone models will have this sync. However, to make sure that your WhatsApp backup is stopped, it is worthwhile to run a check.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don’t backup my WhatsApp?
If you don’t backup your WhatsApp data, you might lose your files and messages in case you change your phone or accidentally delete WhatsApp. Also, if your phone is lost or stolen, and you don’t have a backup, you will lose your WhatsApp data.
Conclusion
To sum this guide up, it is quite easy to stop WhatsApp backup on Android and iOS devices. All you have to do is turn the data syncing off from the Chat settings. While you might not be backing up your WhatsApp for storage or privacy reasons, we will advise you to have a backup on your computer in case of an emergency.
