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How To Catch A Cheater That Deletes Everything- 4 Best Solutions

Liam Wellendorf
Liam Wellendorf
Mar 13, 2025

No one expects to be cheated on, but betrayal happens, with cheaters going to great lengths to hide their tracks. If you suspect infidelity, gathering undeniable proof is crucial for confrontation.

But how to catch a cheater that deletes everything? That’s where tools like SafeMyKid can provide the edge you need. SafeMyKid offers advanced monitoring features that let you see deleted messages, hidden activity, and much more—empowering you with the evidence you need to make an informed decision.

how to catch a cheater who deletes everything

Does Deleting Everything Mean Cheating?

Deleting messages, browser history, or app activity doesn’t automatically mean your partner is cheating, but it’s certainly suspicious. Cheating involves deceit, whether physical, emotional, or online. If your partner is deleting conversations or hiding their actions, it may indicate they’re engaging in inappropriate behavior that breaches the trust in your relationship.

Trust is the cornerstone of a healthy partnership. While some may argue privacy is essential, secrecy that includes constant deletions or hidden communication crosses a boundary. It’s important to stay alert and investigate further if you notice consistent behavior like this.

Signs of a Cheating Partner Who Deletes Everything

Delete button on laptop keyboard

Recognizing the signs of infidelity can help you gather evidence and protect yourself emotionally. Here are the most common indicators of a cheating partner who deletes everything:

1. Increased Secrecy

If your partner starts hiding their phone, turning it face-down, or avoiding using it in front of you, this could be a red flag.

2. Missing Messages or Call Logs

Frequent gaps in chat histories or call logs, especially with specific people, may indicate deleted evidence of inappropriate communication.

3. New Passwords

If your partner suddenly changes their phone or app passwords, despite previously sharing them, this could signal a breach of trust.

4. Nervous or Defensive Behavior

Cheaters often become anxious or defensive when questioned about their actions. They might deflect blame or offer inconsistent explanations.

5. Changes in Routine

Unexpected changes in your partner’s behavior, schedule, or appearance can also indicate infidelity.

What to Look for in a Cheater’s Phone

detecting hidden phone activity

Even if your partner deletes everything, their phone may still hold clues to their behavior. Here’s what to check:

1. Browser History

Missing browsing history or frequent use of incognito mode could suggest they’ve been visiting dating apps or inappropriate websites.

2. App Notifications

Disabled notifications for certain apps, such as social media or messaging platforms, may indicate they’re trying to hide conversations.

3. Dual SIMs or Secret Apps

Look for signs of a second SIM card or hidden apps designed for secret communication.

4. Deleted Media Files

Photos and videos, once deleted, may still leave traces in recently deleted folders or cloud backups.

How to Catch a Cheater Who Deletes Everything

If you’re determined to uncover the truth, here are four effective methods to catch a cheater who deletes everything:

Way 1: Use the SafeMyKid App

SafeMyKid Cell Phone Tracker

If you're looking for a discreet, powerful, and comprehensive way to monitor a loved one’s online activity, SafeMyKid is a standout choice. It’s especially ideal for parents who want to ensure their children are safe online without invading their trust. SafeMyKid provides advanced monitoring features while remaining completely hidden from the device user.

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Key Features of SafeMyKid

  1. Discreet Monitoring: The app operates in stealth mode, ensuring the target user is unaware of its presence.
  2. Website Blocking and Tracking: Block specific websites and monitor browsing history to keep harmful content at bay.
  3. Real-Time Data Access: Access over 56 data types, including text messages, social media chats, GPS location, and more.
  4. Social Media Monitoring: Track activities on platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook without detection.
  5. Powerful Tracking Capabilities: Monitor calls, emails, private media, and even deleted messages.
  6. Geofencing and GPS Location: Receive real-time location updates and set boundaries with geofencing alerts.

How to Catch a Cheater Who Deletes Everything

Setting up SafeMyKid is quick and simple, whether the target device is Android or iOS. Follow these steps:

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Step 1. Sign Up and Create an Account

Visit the SafeMyKid website and create an account using your email address. Complete the registration process and access your SafeMyKid dashboard.

SafeMyKid signup page

Step 2. Install or Set Up SafeMyKid

  • For iOS Devices:

No app installation is required. Simply log in to the target device using iCloud credentials through the SafeMyKid dashboard.

  • For Android Devices:

Download the SafeMyKid app on the target device. Follow the instructions to activate the app in stealth mode.

follow instructions to set up SafeMyKid

Step 3. Catch a Cheater Who Deletes Everything in Real Time

Log in to your SafeMyKid dashboard. Add websites to the blocked list to restrict access to harmful or inappropriate content. Use the dashboard to view real-time activity, including browsing history, app usage, text messages, and more.

catch a cheater who deletes everything

Why Choose SafeMyKid?

SafeMyKid isn’t just another monitoring app—it’s an all-in-one solution that makes safeguarding your loved ones easier.

  • Comprehensive Monitoring: Access over 56 data types, ensuring no activity goes unnoticed.
  • Stealth Mode: Operates discreetly without affecting device performance or battery life.
  • Parental Controls: Block websites, set geofencing alerts, and review activity reports to maintain online safety.
  • User-Friendly Dashboard: Monitor multiple devices through an easy-to-navigate interface.

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Way 2: Recover Deleted Messages

recover deleted messages

When your partner deletes messages, it may feel like they’re hiding something, but you don’t have to stop there. Recovering deleted messages manually is often possible. Most smartphones store deleted texts temporarily in trash folders or backups, making it easier to retrieve them.

Here’s how you can recover deleted messages on Android and iPhone devices:

Steps to Recover Deleted Messages on Android

  1. Open the Messages App: Start by opening the default messaging app on your partner’s phone.
  2. Access the Trash or Recycle Bin: Tap the three-dot menu in the upper-right corner of the screen, and look for a “Trash” or “Recycle Bin” option. This folder usually stores deleted texts for a certain period, often 30 days.
  3. Select Messages to Restore: Scroll through the deleted messages to locate the ones you suspect were erased. Tap on the ones you want to recover.
  4. Recover Messages: Click the “Recover” or “Restore” option. These messages will be restored to the main inbox.

Steps to Recover Deleted Messages on iPhone

  1. Go to Settings: Open the phone’s settings menu and navigate to the “Messages” section.
  2. Check the Recently Deleted Folder: iPhones often have a “Recently Deleted” folder where erased texts are stored temporarily. This feature can be found within the Messages app or in iCloud backups.
  3. Restore Messages: Select the messages you want to recover and choose the “Restore” option to bring them back to the main conversation list.
  4. Use iCloud Backups: If messages are missing, check the iCloud backup. Go to “Settings,” select your Apple ID, then “iCloud” > “Manage Storage” > “Backups.” Restore the phone from the last backup to recover messages.

Pros:

  1. Free and Easy to Do: Recovering deleted texts using built-in phone features is straightforward and won’t cost you anything.
  2. Access to Deleted Media: You may recover not only texts but also photos, videos, or attachments associated with those messages.

Cons:

  1. Requires Access to Their Phone: You’ll need physical access to your partner’s phone, which might be challenging if they’re secretive.
  2. Not Always Successful: Some messages may be permanently deleted, especially if the trash folder has been emptied or backups are outdated.

Way 3: Hire a Private Investigator

hire a private investigator

When manual methods don’t yield results, hiring a private investigator (PI) may be the next step. A professional PI specializes in uncovering infidelity by gathering concrete evidence, such as photographs, videos, or documented patterns of suspicious behavior.

How to Hire a Private Investigator

  1. Research Reputable Investigators: Look for licensed, experienced investigators in your area. Websites, reviews, or referrals from trusted sources can help you find a reliable professional.
  2. Discuss Your Concerns: Share relevant details about your partner’s behavior, schedule, and any red flags you’ve noticed. This helps the investigator focus their efforts.
  3. Allow Time for the Investigation: Be patient as the investigator conducts surveillance and collects evidence. Depending on your partner’s behavior, this may take days or weeks.
  4. Review the Findings: Once the PI completes their investigation, they’ll provide you with a report that includes photos, videos, or other proof.

Pros:

  1. Reliable Evidence: A professional investigation provides irrefutable proof of infidelity, which can be useful if legal proceedings (e.g., divorce) are involved.
  2. Thorough Surveillance: Investigators use advanced techniques and tools, such as GPS tracking or hidden cameras, to monitor your partner’s activities.

Cons:

  1. High Costs: Hiring a PI can be expensive, with hourly rates ranging from $50 to $200 or more. The overall cost depends on the complexity and duration of the investigation.
  2. Not Ideal for Online Cheating: While PIs are great for tracking in-person behavior, they may not be as effective for uncovering online affairs.

Way 4: Use Recording Devices

use recording devices

If your partner is deleting messages and you suspect infidelity, recording devices can help gather evidence. These devices can capture audio or video conversations discreetly, allowing you to monitor interactions that happen in your absence.

How to Use Recording Devices

  1. Purchase a Recording Device: Look for small, inconspicuous devices online or at an electronics store. Options include audio recorders, video cameras, or devices disguised as everyday items like USB drives or phone chargers.
  2. Choose a Location: Place the recording device in an area your partner frequents, such as your home, car, or office. Ensure it’s well-hidden but positioned to capture clear audio or video.
  3. Retrieve the Device: After some time, retrieve the device and review the recordings for any suspicious conversations or interactions.

Pros:

  1. Low Maintenance: Once installed, the device works independently, requiring minimal effort from you.
  2. Provides Tangible Evidence: Audio or video recordings offer direct proof of infidelity, which can be useful in confrontations or legal situations.

Cons:

  1. Legal Restrictions: Many regions have strict laws about recording conversations without consent. Always research the laws in your area to avoid legal repercussions.
  2. Variable Quality: Poor audio or video quality may limit the usefulness of the recordings, especially in noisy or poorly lit environments.

5 Signs Someone Is Lying About Cheating after Deleting Everything

Even with the right tools to recover deleted messages or track suspicious activity, recognizing deception in real-time is just as crucial. Body language, speech patterns, and sudden behavioral shifts can all be red flags when someone is hiding the truth.

While no single sign is definitive proof of cheating, a combination of these behaviors can indicate dishonesty.

Use this cheat sheet to help identify key signs of deception and how to handle them:

Signs What It Means What to Do
Avoiding Eye Contact Guilt or anxiety when lying Observe patterns in other conversations
Defensive Behavior Overreacts or blames you Stay calm, ask open-ended questions
Inconsistent Stories Changes in details over time Take note & revisit later
Sudden Routine Changes Unexplained new habits Compare with past behavior
Phone Secrecy Hides device, changes passwords Suggest open phone policies

FAQs About Catching a Cheater Who Deletes Everything

To wrap up this guide, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about catching a cheater who deletes everything. These insights aim to address your concerns and help you make an informed decision.

1. Can deleted messages still be recovered?

Yes, in many cases, deleted messages can be recovered. Smartphones often store deleted texts temporarily in trash folders or backups. Apps like SafeMyKid or manual recovery methods can help retrieve these messages.

2. Is it legal to monitor someone’s phone activity?

The legality of monitoring someone’s phone depends on local laws and whether you have their consent. If you’re unsure, consult a legal expert to avoid potential repercussions.

3. What’s the most effective method for catching a cheater?

The most effective method depends on your situation. Tools like SafeMyKid are great for discreet online monitoring, while private investigators excel in tracking in-person behavior. Combining methods may yield the best results.

4. How can I confront my partner with evidence?

When you have solid proof, choose a calm and private setting to discuss your findings. Be direct but respectful, and focus on the facts rather than emotions to maintain a constructive conversation.

Conclusion

So, how to catch a cheater who deletes everything is undoubtedly challenging, but it’s not impossible. With tools like SafeMyKid, manual message recovery techniques, private investigators, and recording devices, you can gather the evidence you need to confront the situation.

While suspicion can be overwhelming, always approach the issue with caution and respect for boundaries. Trust is a vital cornerstone of any relationship, and maintaining open communication can often address concerns before they spiral into bigger problems.

Remember, the goal is not just to uncover the truth but also to take steps toward healing and resolution—whatever that may look like for you.

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