CRYPT8 File Extension

What is CRYPT8 file?

.CRYPT8 files are used by the WhatsApp application to store an encrypted database of archival chats and messages. These files are most commonly stored on an SD card of a smartphone or tablet running the Android operating system, which hosts the WhatsApp messenger. The .CRYPT8 extension is typically added to DB files to indicate the method of encryption used. Depending on the version of the application, different encryption algorithms may be employed.

Where can encrypted WhatsApp message archives be found?

Messages in the form of an encrypted database are stored in the device's memory or external storage. They are located in the WhatsApp/Database directory. The file may be named msgstore.db.crypt8. Various versions of WhatsApp have stored, or still store, message databases in formats with encryption such as:

• CRYPT5,
• CRYPT7,
• or the newer CRYPT12.

The WhatsApp application automatically accesses files from the archive. However, if the application is reinstalled, it is necessary to log in with the same phone number for the archive to be accessible.

How can access to .CRYPT8 files be obtained?

.CRYPT8 files are encrypted, therefore, accessing their contents requires having the key. It is stored in the application data on the device in a file named key. Additionally, if you do not have access to the appropriate version of WhatsApp, it might be necessary to install dedicated software to read the chat database, such as WhatsApp Viewer. This also allows for the export of chats to other formats.

Programs which support CRYPT8 file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open CRYPT8 files divided into 4 categories according to system platform supported. Files with CRYPT8 suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 04/13/2024

How to open file with CRYPT8 extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening CRYPT8 files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with CRYPT8 extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Get the WhatsApp Viewer

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening CRYPT8 files is that no program that can handle CRYPT8 files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing WhatsApp Viewer or different compatible program, such as WhatsApp for iPhone, WhatCrypt Tools, Andriller. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support CRYPT8 files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit WhatsApp Viewer website and download the installer.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of WhatsApp Viewer

If the problems with opening CRYPT8 files still occur even after installing WhatsApp Viewer, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of WhatsApp Viewer is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. This can be one of the causes why CRYPT8 files are not compatible with WhatsApp Viewer. The most recent version of WhatsApp Viewer is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open CRYPT8 files to WhatsApp Viewer

After installing WhatsApp Viewer (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open CRYPT8 files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Clicking the CRYPT8 with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the WhatsApp Viewer installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open CRYPT8 files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with CRYPT8 extension, select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with CRYPT8 extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the CRYPT8 is not faulty

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the CRYPT8 file in question. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. The CRYPT8 may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the CRYPT8 is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the CRYPT8 file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. CRYPT8 file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Verify that the CRYPT8 file’s structure is intact

If you obtained the problematic CRYPT8 file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. It could happen the the download process of file with CRYPT8 extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the WhatsApp Messenger Message Database Format file again.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open WhatsApp Viewer

If the systems has insufficient resources to open CRYPT8 files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with WhatsApp Messenger Message Database Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with CRYPT8 files affecting older versions of given software.

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