Guide to Completely Erase Data on iPhone to Avoid Privacy Leak

With growing instances of data leak and misuse, there’s a fear of digital data on iPhone landing in wrong hands. Personal photos, messages, videos, contacts, or sensitive information such as bank details, shopping apps ID etc., are at risk when selling, trading off, recycling or donating your iOS device.

So what can you do to keep your old iPhone data away from strangers’ eyes and make it 100% unrecoverable?

One solution is the commonly used Apple’s recommendation — erase iPhone data by choosing ‘erase all content and settings’ on your device. However, with professional hackers and sophisticated software available, erasing data by this method doesn’t guarantee data privacy.

Experts suggest using trusted iPhone erasure software that is 100 % safe. The software can make iPhone data unrecoverable beyond the reach of any tool.

Let’s understand in detail how to permanently erase data on iPhone by these techniques.

Clean iPhone by using ‘Erase All Content and Settings’

To clear all data from iPhone use the’Erase All Content and Settings’ option in the settings of your iOS device. It is like factory resetting your iPhone.

All the app data, settings, passwords, photos, videos, contacts, documents, messages, Calendar, chats, music, audio files etc., gets deleted after factory reset from iPhone.

However, don’t forget to first take the backup of your iPhone data in iCloud or iTunes.

Steps to erase iPhone via Settings:

• Go to Settings.
• Navigate to General > Reset> Erase All Content and Settings.
• Click Erase Now in the dialog box. Enter Passcode and Apple ID password, when prompted.

This will erase iPhone data turning the device off. When you power on the iPhone, you will see all its data is deleted including, photos videos, apps, contacts etc.

Permanently wipe iPhone to 0% recovery – Secure & tested method

Although deleting data via ‘Erase All Content and Settings’ on iPhone will make your device as clean as new, but it is not enough. Your iPhone data after factory reset is still recoverable by hackers. Thus, to protect privacy and prevent data leak by any means, it is essential to erase iPhone with the help of a professional iOS eraser software .

You can find several iOS cleaner software online but here we recommend Stellar Toolkit for iPhone. The efficient software is the best way to wipe iOS device before you sell , recycle, or donate.

It removes your personal videos, pictures, contacts, notes, calendar, browsing history, call log, chats, messages, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other sensitive information saved on your iPhone. The secure DIY software supports the latest iOS 16 and below versions. You can erase all variants including iPhone 6, iPhone 7, iPhone 8, iPhone X, iPhone SE, iPhone 11, and above.

You can take the free trail and gage the software features and user-friendliness.

Step-by-step guide to erase iPhone data permanently:

Step 1: Download and launch Stellar Toolkit for iPhone on computer.

Step 2: Click on Erase Data module.

Step 3: On Erase iPhone Data screen, click **Next.
**

Step 4: As you see the Click Device to Select screen appears, connect your iPhone to computer.

Step 5: Select Erase.

Step 6: In the Erase Process box, select Yes.

Step 7: Data Erase Complete message box appears that asks for confirmation before erasing the data. Click OK.

Wrapping Up

After erasing complete iPhone data by using the secure iPhone eraser software by Stellar, there’s no need to worry about personal data leak. The software algorithms ensure that even the most advanced iOS data recovery tool cannot retrieve your information.

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Use the best iPhone data eraser tool to permanently wipe iPhone data. This is a assure way to prevent data leak and protect privacy.

How to find lost iPhone Backup files on Windows PC?

Summary: You have to restore iPhone data. But you cannot find backup files saved on your Windows PC or the backup files are unreadable. This post guides you to find iPhone backup on Windows PC and methods to restore it on your device.

You may get into a terrible iPhone data loss situation after a factory reset, stolen iPhone, jailbreak or physical damage to your device, etc. Backup is your only resort. But another shocker is waiting for you. You cannot find iPhone backup files once saved on your Windows PC.

Your backup files are not readable, and you have no clue how to access them.

In such a situation, keep calm and do not worry. If you have ever saved your iPhone backup on a Windows computer and are now unable to locate or access it, this post guides you to find an iPhone backup on a PC and how to restore it on your device.

Where are iPhone backups stored on Windows PC?

iPhone backups are safe copies of your complete device information. iTunes saves iPhone backup in the Users folder on a Windows computer. These backup files are not in a readable format. You can copy them but should never try to move files to a different drive, edit, rename or extract content. All such activities can ruin the backup files. However, you can make copies of your backup or delete backup that you do not require anymore.

Steps to find iPhone backup files on Windows PC:

• In the Search bar, enter %appdata% or %USERPROFILE% (if you downloaded iTunes from the Microsoft Store)
• Press Return
• Double-click these folders: Apple Computer > MobileSync > Backup

You can also locate iPhone backup in Windows 7, 8, 10 or 11 by following Users > (username) > AppData > Roaming > Apple Computer > MobileSync > Backup.

Cannot locate iPhone backup on Windows PC? Find and Restore data with iPhone data recovery software.

If you cannot find your iPhone backup data on your PC or cannot access the backup files, take refuge in third-party software – Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone.

How can Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone help you?

You can find, access, and restore lost iPhone backup files with Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone. It is a secure tool that efficiently scans the computer to find your iPhone backup. The recovered iPhone backup files are in readable form, and you can either save them on your PC or iPhone.

When you can use the Stellar iPhone data recovery solution

• You are unable to locate your iPhone backup files
• Your backup files are either lost or deleted.
• You cannot access iPhone backup files on Windows PC
• Not able to restore backup on your old/new iPhone

How can Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone recover lost backup files from PC?

The iPhone Data Recovery Tool by Stellar is a do-it-yourself software that quickly recovers complete iPhone data in a readable form from your Windows PC.

You can recover all your lost photos, videos, contacts, messages, Safari bookmarks, Call history, Reminders, Voice memos, Notes, WhatsApp, Kik, WeChat, Viber messages, etc.

It also offers a Deep Scan if your desired iPhone information is not recovered after the first scan. A deep scan does a comprehensive scan of the selected device or backup to recover every bit of lost or deleted backup information.

Benefits of Stellar iPhone Data Recovery

• Recovery of deleted or lost backup files
• Recovers data in a readable format
• Option to restore only that data from backup which you want to be in your iPhone
• Allows to save recovered backup on computer or iPhone

Step-by-step recovery of lost iPhone backup on Windows PC with Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone

Step 1: Connect your iPhone to your computer and launch the software.

Step 2: On the home screen, select Recover from iPhone. The scanning process begins.

Step 3: After scanning, all the files on your iPhone are listed.

If you do not see the required files in the list, choose Deep Scan. It will scan for the backup stored on your computer system.

Step 4: Select and save the recovered iPhone data at your desired location. You can save it on your iPhone if you want to restore backup data on your device or save it on your computer.

Wrapping Up

Losing iPhone data after factory reset, jailbreak, being stuck in a boot loop or physical damage, etc., can get messier when you cannot find or retrieve information from iPhone backup files saved on your computer. Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone significantly relieves such data loss situations.

This iPhone utility not only finds the lost iPhone backup files on Windows PC, but it also makes them readable and allows you to save/restore them to your iPhone or computer. Moreover, it lets you selectively transfer iPhone data on your iPhone rather than complete a backup.

You can download the free trial version to evaluate its performance. It is undoubtedly not going to disappoint you.

New iPhone 14 Restore from iCloud Stuck on Time Remaining Estimating

Summary: The joy of using iPhone 14 comes to a halt if your newly purchased iOS device remains stuck at “iCloud backup remaining estimating time” loop. You’ll Google how to restart an iPhone but end up being confused about what to do or what not to do. We understand your angst. So, in this blog, we offer you lucrative options to restore new iPhone 14 from iCloud backup. Also, we have taken the liberty to recommend a reliable iPhone data recovery software to use in case of accidental data loss. Use the given buttons to free download and try it yourself.

Every time you buy a new iPhone, restoring backup becomes a vital necessity to finish the setup. Long wait to restore a new iPhone 14 is killing the joy of using the most awaited Apple product. You can restore iTunes or Finder backup using laptop or MacBook, but as soon as you perform iCloud backup on iPhone 14, the device gets stuck at estimated time remaining. It’s a prominent issue, pointed by many iPhone 14 users recently.

The problem arises at setting up a new iPhone with existing iCloud backup. Possibility of getting stuck on Restore in Progress: An estimated storage (XXGB) required to finish restoring your apps and data.

Why is my new iPhone 14 stuck at restore from iCloud?

Before finding your options to overcome the problem and learn how to restore an iPhone, get familiar with the root cause of the problem:

1. Perhaps additional data storage space is required.
2. Apple server is preventing iCloud data restoration.
3. iCloud system status is not working for iCloud backup and iCloud Account login.

• Slow or unstable WiFi connection.
• Numerous unwanted backup files stored on iCloud.

Generally, restoring in progress doesn’t take more than 20 to 60 minutes for an iPhone to restart. Nonetheless, if restoring is stuck beyond that time, then be wary that it might take hours to finish. Anyhow, iPhone offers you ample options to get around a stuck iCloud backup.

How to restart an iPhone stuck at “Restore from iCloud- Time Remaining: Estimating”

Read the below methods to identify a perfect route to finish restoring iPhone 14 from iCloud backup. You can also stop restoring your iPhone and experiment with other alternatives:

Cancel the iCloud Restore in Progress

Stop the ‘Restore from iCloud’ process and start afresh after giving rest to your iPhone for a while. The move allows iOS device to optimize operations after turning off all the activities. To do so, you need to interrupt the ongoing restore from iCloud backup, which is already stuck at a specified time remaining. Rebooting your iPhone will fix all the minor glitches liable for creating such. Follow these steps:

• Press and hold the side button (on the right hand side of your iPhone) along with volume up/ down button till the power-off slider appears on your iPhone 14 screen.

• Drag the slider to your right and wait for 30-seconds to turn off the device.

• To turn the iPhone back on, press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears on screen.

Restart Restoring iCloud Backup

Once your iPhone 14 restarts, follow these steps to restore iCloud backup:

• Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings.

• Set up your iPhone and select Restore from iCloud Backup on the Apps & Data screen.
• You can also choose another restoration option- Transfer Directly from iPhone.
• Follow the instruction available on-screen to restore your iOS device.

If your new iPhone 14 continues getting stuck at iCloud restore progress, then you need to check your internet connection. Also, make sure the iOS device has adequate space to handle large volume of data you are trying to copy in it.

Check the iCloud System Status

At rare occasions, even Apple server prevents the iCloud data restoration. The first thing you can do in such situations is to ascertain whether the restore process was stalled because of an internet issue or iCloud System Status. To do so, go to Apple system status page and check if iCloud Backup, Apple ID, and iCloud Account and Sign In, are working. If not, then you can’t do much but wait for Apple support to fix the issue at their end.

iCloud backup restore stuck while setting up a new iPhone 14 is not stressful until you lose a significant amount of data in the process. It is possible that in the search and trial of different options to restore iCloud backup on new iPhone 14, you might lose a significant amount of data. Use a reliable iPhone data recovery software like Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone to restore all the lost or deleted iPhone data from different variants of iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.

Note that the software also supports recovery from iCloud backup and iTunes backup. The advanced software allows you to select and restore only a selected few or the desired files lost from iCloud. Moreover, the iOS recovery software executes recovery in the least possible time and could manage every bit of data stored in your iCloud backup. Refer to our KB to learn how to recover deleted iCloud data .

Conclusion:

This blog encapsulates various methods to swiftly get out of the trouble of new iPhone 14 stuck at restore from iCloud. As you try these methods, eventually, you will find the most suitable option to resolve the iPhone 14 stuck at restore from iCloud error.  At times, the process of data restore remains slow for reasons beyond your control. Perhaps the files you wish to restore to the newly purchased iOS device are way too large or the process is taking longer because of a weak Wi-Fi network or the Apple Server is undergoing maintenance. Either of the reasons may further enhance the risk of data loss on the iPhone. Therefore, you need an infallible solution like Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone to retrieve lost contacts, photos, videos, apps, games, chats, and more.

Top iPhone Message Recovery Software

iPhone is a valuable digital device, and so are the messages you store in it. Nonetheless, many users may accidentally delete them at once while deleting some unnecessary apps or data from their iPhones. If you are a victim of such an incident and looking for quick options to recover iPhone messages, this article is your ultimate saviour.

Do iPhone recovery programs work?

Yes! iPhone’s built-in recovery options can restore temporarily deleted or lost messages hidden in the operating system. Moreover, many iPhone-friendly tools and applications guarantee retrieval of lost messages without using backup options. Simply download and install the tool and play along to scan your iOS device.

What is the best message recovery software?

With a wide range of data recovery software available online, finding an ideal solution to recover lost messages would be challenging. Here’s some criteria for selecting the right tool:

• The software or tool can recover deleted messages even without backup.
• It can recover deleted messages on iPhone from iCloud or iTunes without affecting the existing data.
• The tool is virus-free, reliable, and safe to use.
• It is compatible with all iOS models, including iPhone 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, or XS.
• It can recover various iOS files like messages, photos, videos, contacts, WhatsApp, or FaceTime messages.
• The tool must offer professional technical support to address your queries while using the software.

Pro Tip: Stop using your iPhone as soon as you realize that a significant amount of data, including files, messages, photos, etc., are lost. Any operation on the device may overwrite the hidden or lost data, making it irretrievable.

Best 5 iPhone Message Recovery Software to Try

1. Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone

One of the most esteemed iPhone data recovery tools, Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone , is known for its incredibly intuitive GUI. It meets all the above-mentioned criteria that make it proficient at salvaging your lost iPhone messages, WhatsApp chats, FaceTime data, etc. Further, the tool can transfer your important messages from iPhone to personal computer, laptop, or Mac.

Besides data recovery from iPhone, iCloud, and iTunes, Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone gives you the option to selectively browse, preview, and recover data after scan. Moreover, it allows you to permanently erase unwanted data from your iPhone beyond recovery. All such advanced features make it a prestigious iPhone recovery message option. Read this KB to recover deleted data from iPhone via Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone.

Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone - Advantages

• The tool can recover unlimited file formats on storage media, be it Safari bookmarks, notes, voice memos, and WhatsApp chat history, or general messages.

• You can preview all the data recovered from your iPhone for free.

• It is proficient at recovering deleted data from an encrypted backup.

• The tool is easy-to-use and does deep scanning of an iPhone.

• It can also perform recovery of lost data from iTunes and iCloud backup.

• Disadvantages You cannot save the recovered messages or files without purchasing the software.

2. Dr. Fone for iOS

Dr. Fone for iOS is another famous iPhone message recovery application. It’s a professional tool that guides you on retrieving deleted messages on your iPhone while enabling recovery of diverse iOS files, including contacts, photos, voicemails, and SMS. The app has a preview function to help you view the deleted messages before recovery.

Dr. Fone for iOS - Advantages

• Swiftly recovers data from iTunes, iCloud, and iPhone
• Compatible with all iPhone models.

Disadvantages

• You can’t access advanced data recovery functionalities without using the upgraded version.
• The application is costly to upgrade.

3. EaseUS MobiSaver

EaseUS MobiSaver is an iPhone SMS recovery software that can scan your iOS device, iCloud backup, and iTunes backup to trace the lost message files. It not only recovers lost messages but also helps you retrieve data from your iPhone if your device turns inaccessible. The free version has certain limitations which can be overcome using the paid version.

EaseUS MobiSaver – Advantages

• It is an absolutely free data recovery solution.
• It can recover messages from a water-damaged, broken, lost, or cracked iPhone.
• The app displays all the deleted files.

Disadvantages

• Its data recovery success rate is low compared with other professional software.
• Being a free tool, it can recover only a limited set of data files.

4. Syncios Data Recovery

This tool claims to bring back all deleted or lost data from iPhone, including audio files, SMS, documents, video files, and contacts. Syncios Data Recovery works for all iPhones, iPads, or even iPods. It is recommended to download the free trial version and see if your deleted messages can be recovered or not.

Syncios Data Recovery - Advantages

• The tool is compatible with all versions of the iPhone.
• You can reach out to their quality customer service via email or phone.
• The brand offers free technical support for a lifetime.

Disadvantages

• It takes a long time to retrieve deleted text messages from iPhone or lost data.

5. iMyFone D-Back

This tool enables you to recover the data in all iOS devices whose data have been lost or deleted accidentally. Renowned as iPhone text recovery app, iMyFone D-Back claims to recover all the lost SMS, WhatsApp texts, contacts, notes, call history, and photos. Further, the tool can easily and swiftly bring back iCloud, iTunes, and even iOS backup files. Its smooth preview function enables you to check and recover selective items only.

iMyFone D-Back - Advantages

• It can recover about 20+ varieties of files.
• The tool is free from viruses and malware.
• Besides iPhone, it is also compatible with almost all iPad versions.

Disadvantages

• Data recovery from iCloud remains a challenge.
• It cannot recover all kinds of lost data files.

The Bottom Line

iPhone data recovery tools are available in bulk. All are significantly different from each other in terms of functionality and proficiency. We cherry-picked some reputed tools for you to ease the pain of losing crucial messages from iPhone. There is no one-size-fits-all tool in the iPhone data recovery category. Therefore, we suggest you pick a reliable software, which is trusted and recommended by industry veterans, easy-to-use, and performs multiple functions at a reasonable cost. This article will give you a clear picture of which tool is the most suitable to overcome your iPhone messages recovery needs.