Permanently Deleting Messages (Incoming Messages Only)

In RapidPro, messages must be archived before they can be deleted. Only incoming messages can be deleted—outgoing messages are always retained to preserve delivery history and verify message origin. This guide shows how to delete messages from the Archived folder (and, if applicable, from the Delete folder). Deletion is permanent and cannot be undone.

Quick setup checklist

Use deletion only after you’re sure messages are no longer needed.

  1. Confirm deletion requirements
  2. Delete messages from the Archived folder
  3. Alternative: delete from the Delete folder
  4. Prevent mistakes with a simple workflow

Step-by-Step Process

1
Confirm deletion requirements

  • Messages must be archived before they can be deleted.
  • Only incoming messages can be deleted.
  • Outgoing messages are retained to preserve delivery history and verify message origin.
  • Deleted messages cannot be recovered.

[CAPTURE: Messages page showing Inbox, Archived, and Delete folders in the left sidebar.]

2
Delete messages from the Archived folder

  1. Go to Messages.
  2. Click the Archived folder in the left sidebar.

[CAPTURE: Messages page with the Archived folder highlighted.]

Select the messages you want to delete:

  • Check individual message boxes, or
  • Use the All checkbox to select multiple messages.

[CAPTURE: Archived messages list with checkboxes selected.]

  1. Click the Delete (trash) icon above the message list.
  2. Confirm the deletion when prompted.

[CAPTURE: Archived messages toolbar showing the Delete icon.]

The selected messages are permanently removed from your workspace.

3
Alternative: delete from the Delete folder

If messages have already been marked for deletion:

  1. Open the Delete folder in the Messages sidebar.

[CAPTURE: Messages sidebar showing the Delete folder.]

  1. Select the messages you want to remove.
  2. Click the trash icon above the list.
  3. Confirm the deletion.
4
Prevent mistakes with a simple workflow

  • Archive first to remove clutter without losing history.
  • Export messages if you may need an audit trail later.
  • Delete only after review, because deletion is irreversible.

Common Issues & Quick Fixes

Problem: I can’t delete a message.

Possible cause: The message is not archived.
Fix: Move the message to the Archived folder first, then delete it.

Problem: I don’t see the Delete icon.

Possible causes:

  • No messages are selected.
  • The messages are outgoing.

Fix:

  • Select at least one message.
  • Confirm the messages are incoming, not outgoing.
Problem: I deleted a message by mistake.

Explanation: Message deletion is permanent.
Fix: There is no recovery option once a message is deleted.