WHATSAPP EXPORT PRESERVATION CHECKLIST
Version 2026.07 — free template from ChatToPDF

BEFORE EXPORTING

[ ] Ask the intended recipient which export format and supporting information
    they require. Do not assume that a PDF alone is sufficient.
[ ] Keep the original phone and WhatsApp account available if it is safe and
    lawful to do so. Do not delete or alter the source conversation.
[ ] Note the phone model, operating system, WhatsApp version, account phone
    number, chat name and the device time zone.
[ ] Record who performed the export, the date/time and the purpose.

CREATE AND PRESERVE THE ORIGINAL

[ ] Use WhatsApp’s own Export Chat function.
[ ] Record whether “With Media” or “Without Media” was selected.
[ ] Save the original ZIP/TXT exactly as exported. Do not rename, edit, unzip
    and re-zip, or convert the only copy.
[ ] Make a read-only backup of the original in a separate location.
[ ] Calculate and record a SHA-256 hash of the original file.
[ ] Start the chain-of-custody log.

CREATE A WORKING COPY

[ ] Duplicate the original. Perform every conversion, selection, annotation or
    redaction on the working copy—not the preserved original.
[ ] Keep timestamps, participant identifiers and surrounding context visible
    unless the recipient instructs otherwise.
[ ] Use representative extracts; do not cherry-pick in a way that creates a
    misleading impression.
[ ] Log every omission and redaction, including the reason and page/range.
[ ] Keep the unredacted working copy securely if lawful and appropriate.

ASSEMBLE THE HANDOVER

[ ] Include the preserved original or explain who retains it.
[ ] Include the evidence index, chain-of-custody log and redaction log.
[ ] Give each file a stable exhibit/item ID and descriptive filename.
[ ] Check dates, time zone, page order, names and phone numbers.
[ ] Confirm that sensitive third-party data is handled appropriately.
[ ] Ask the recipient to confirm receipt and record the transfer in the log.

IMPORTANT LIMIT

A hash can help show whether a file later matches the bytes that were hashed.
It does not prove who wrote a message, that the export is complete, that every
statement is true, or that a court or authority will accept it.

Not legal advice. Requirements vary. Obtain advice for your jurisdiction and
case before submitting evidence.
