CRYPT12 File Extension

What is CRYPT12 file?

Files with the .CRYPT12 extension contain an encrypted database of the WhatsApp messenger application, using a 256-bit AES algorithm. These are securely encrypted and compressed messages that have been sent and received using this software. The file contains a backup, allowing for the recovery of data in case of access issues. It may indicate a specific date.

What Is the .CRYPT12 Extension?

The .CRYPT12 extension is usually added to .DB database files. It signifies that the data have been encrypted using a specific 256-bit AES algorithm. The key is stored in a separate location. This extension is used exclusively by the WhatsApp application on mobile devices. Files are typically stored in the sdcard/WhatsApp/Databases directory. However, CRYPT12 files, as part of a backup of messages sent and received, can be transferred to a computer or another memory storage device, for example, to a cloud storage.

How to Access Messages from the WhatsApp Database?

Opening a CRYPT12 file is possible if the application has access to the encryption key. This is available in the application's data, at the location on the phone /data/data/com.whatsapp/files/key. Decryption programs can use this key to restore the original DB database. Recovering chat data from a CRYPT12 WhatsApp backup is also possible within the application itself. To do this, the user should:

1. Install WhatsApp.
2. Authenticate the same number,
3. Confirm the Restore option.

Programs which support CRYPT12 file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open CRYPT12 files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. CRYPT12 files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 03/14/2024

How to open file with CRYPT12 extension?

Being unable to open files with CRYPT12 extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with CRYPT12 extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Get the Andriller

Problems with opening and working with CRYPT12 files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with CRYPT12 files being present on your machine. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Andriller or different compatible program, such as WhatsApp for iPhone, WhatCrypt Tools, WhatsApp Tri-Crypt (Omni-Crypt). Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support CRYPT12 files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading Andriller installed is by going to developer’s website (Andriller) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Andriller

If the problems with opening CRYPT12 files still occur even after installing Andriller, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Andriller is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. The reason that Andriller cannot handle files with CRYPT12 may be that the software is outdated. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Andriller.

Step 3. Associate WhatsApp Messenger Message Database Format files with Andriller

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate CRYPT12 files with latest version of Andriller you have installed on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the CRYPT12 with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Andriller installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open CRYPT12 files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected CRYPT12 file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with CRYPT12 extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the CRYPT12 for errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the CRYPT12 file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. The CRYPT12 may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the CRYPT12 file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. CRYPT12 file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Verify that the CRYPT12 file’s structure is intact

Did you receive the CRYPT12 file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. If the CRYPT12 file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

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. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle Andriller

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support CRYPT12 files. Close all running programs and try opening the CRYPT12 file.

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 CRYPT12 files affecting older versions of given software.

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