How to Save TikTok and X (Twitter) Direct Messages for Court
Reviewed by Jacob Reed, founder of Verity ·
Short answer
Both apps let you download a copy of your own account data, and it includes direct messages. TikTok: Profile, menu, Settings and privacy, Account, Download your data. X: Settings and privacy, Your account, Download an archive of your data. Each takes from hours to a few days to be ready. Screenshot the conversation now with the dates showing, because a message or account can be deleted before the download arrives.
Harassment and co-parenting arguments don't only happen by text. When they happen in TikTok or X messages, the apps' own data downloads are the most complete record you can get yourself, with a date and time on every message.
How do you download TikTok messages?
- 1.Open TikTok, go to your Profile and tap the menu (three lines) in the top corner.
- 2.Tap Settings and privacy, then Account, then Download your data.
- 3.Choose what to include. Either pick all data, or make a custom selection and make sure messages are ticked.
- 4.Pick a format: TXT is easier to read yourself, JSON is better for software. Then request the data.
- 5.Come back to the Download data tab when it is ready, usually within a few days, and download it. TikTok only keeps the file available for a few days, so don't wait.
How do you download X (Twitter) messages?
- 1.Open X in a browser or the app and go to Settings and privacy, then Your account.
- 2.Choose Download an archive of your data and confirm your password. X may send a code to your email or phone.
- 3.Request the archive. Preparing it can take from a few hours to a day or more.
- 4.When X notifies you, return to the same page and download the zip. Inside is a page you can open in a web browser to read your messages, plus the raw data files.
Why screenshot as well?
The download only covers what is still in your account when it is made. If the other person deletes a message or their account before then, it may be gone from the download too. Screenshots taken today, with the other person's profile name and the dates visible, fill that gap. Take them in order and let each one overlap the last. See organizing screenshots for your lawyer.
Can you download the other person's messages?
Only through your own account. Your download includes both sides of conversations you were part of, but you can't request someone else's data, and signing in to their account to get it can be illegal. If more is needed, the other side's records can be requested through the court process; see getting the other parent's messages through discovery.
What should you do with the download?
Keep the original zip untouched and work from a copy. Note the date you requested and downloaded it. Give your lawyer the whole file rather than pieces cut out of it, along with your screenshots.
Can Verity read TikTok or X downloads?
Not yet. Verity reads exports from texting apps, WhatsApp, Messenger, Instagram, Telegram, Discord and others; the export guides list them all. If you have a TikTok or X download you need read, email Jacob@getverity.report. Knowing people need it decides which reader we build next.
This is general information, not legal advice. Menu names change between app versions. Verity is not a law firm and is not affiliated with TikTok or X.
Also saving texts or other chats?
Step-by-step export guides for iPhone, Android, WhatsApp, Messenger and more.
See the export guides →