# WhatsApp Logger (Self-Hosted)

A privacy-focused, self-hosted WhatsApp archiving tool. It captures messages — including deleted ones — via a linked device connection and stores them in your own Firebase Firestore database.

!!!warning Update to v4.1.7
Earlier versions could get stuck in a reconnect loop (Status 428) due to a deprecated `printQRInTerminal` setting in Baileys. This is fixed in v4.1.7, along with QR code rendering now working directly on the Express web interface instead of the broken terminal output.
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!!!success Is this safe to use?
Yes. WhatsApp bans accounts for *sending* spam or unauthorized automated messages — this tool is a **100% passive, read-only listener**. It connects using the official Multi-Device WebSocket protocol, the same way linking a second browser to WhatsApp Web works. Since it doesn't interact with anyone, there's no risk of being reported.
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## Features

- **Anti-Delete** — messages are logged instantly, so they're preserved even if the sender deletes them
- **Privacy first** — you host the backend and database; no third-party servers touch your data
- **Secure access** — the frontend is password-protected against your own backend
- **Search & filter** — search by content or filter by date
- **Export** — download chat logs as `.txt` files
- **Offline ready** — IndexedDB caching lets you read logs without an internet connection

## Recommended setup

- Install the web app as a **PWA** after publishing it, for better security and a native feel
- Enable **PIN or biometric authentication** inside the web app (Settings)

## Get started

- [Prerequisites & Architecture](prerequisites.md)
- [Step 1 — Firebase Setup](firebase-setup.md)
- [Step 2 — Deploy the Backend](deploy-backend.md)
- [Step 3 — Connect WhatsApp](connect-whatsapp.md)
- [Step 4 — Setup the Frontend](setup-frontend.md)
- [Step 5 — Usage](usage.md)
- [Step 6 — Keep it Alive](keep-alive.md)
- [Troubleshooting](troubleshooting.md)
- [Roadmap](roadmap.md)

## Disclaimer

This tool is for personal archiving purposes. Using it to log conversations without consent may violate privacy laws in your jurisdiction. The author is not responsible for misuse.