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How to run an extraction

Step-by-step guide on how to run an extraction for both iPhone and Android.

Updated over 2 weeks ago

This step-by-step guide walks users through the entire extraction process, including downloading and opening the Hearsay Extractor, connecting the device, selecting a save location, and running the extraction.


iPhone Extraction Process

Step 1: Open the Hearsay Extractor

Open the Hearsay Extractor application that you downloaded to your computer. Copy and paste the extraction code from the case dashboard into the app and click Enter.

Step 2: Select your type of device.

Click iPhone.

Step 3: Plug in your phone to the computer and unlock it

Plug your phone into the computer using a USB cable and unlock it. If you receive a popup asking you to trust the computer, tap Trust if prompted.

Issues connecting your iPhone to your computer? Click here for assistance.

Step 4: Select save location

The extraction is saved locally to the location you choose. No data is shared or uploaded until you choose to share it at the final step.

By default, the save location is your computer (or the last used location if you've run an extraction before). If your computer has enough storage, click Start Backup.

If not, click the Browse button to select a different location.

Click here for help with selecting an alternate save location.

Step 5: Enter Pin

The custodian will be prompted to enter the phone’s password directly on the device to grant permission to begin the extraction.

Step 6: Wait about an hour while the Hearsay Extractor runs

Once the time and loading bars appear, the extraction has successfully started.

The extraction time will vary based on the amount of data on the phone, the computer’s performance, the USB connection, and the save location.

Plan for the process to take at least an hour, though it may be faster or slower depending on your hardware.

When you see the message Device backup is now completed, the extraction is complete and the phone can be unplugged.


Click Okay to proceed with selecting and sharing messages.


Next steps

Once your extraction is complete, continue to one of the following articles based on how you'd like to share the data:


Android Extraction Process

Step 1: Open the Hearsay Extractor

Open the Hearsay Extractor application that you downloaded to your computer.
Copy and paste the extraction code from the case dashboard into the app and click Enter.

Step 2: Select your type of device.

Click Android.

Step 3a: Enable Developer Mode

Follow the on-screen instructions to enable Developer Mode.

To turn on Developer Mode:

  • Go to Settings

  • Tap System or Software Information (varies by model)

  • Scroll to About Phone

  • Tap Build Number seven times

Once completed, click Continue.

Need more help with Developer Mode? Click here for detailed instructions.

Step 3b: Adjust Additional Settings

Follow the on-screen instructions to turn on USB Debugging and Keep Awake:

  • Go to Settings

  • Tap Developer Options

  • Turn on USB Debugging

  • Turn on Keep device awake (or similar wording)

Click Continue once complete.

Step 3c: Plug in device

Follow the on-screen instructions to allow any pop-ups that appear on your phone.

Now, plug your phone into the computer using a USB cable. On your phone:

  • Check the “Always allow” box on the permission popup

  • Tap Allow when prompted

Once complete, click Continue in the Hearsay Extractor.

Issues connecting your Android to your computer? Click here for assistance.

Step 4: Select save location

The extraction is saved locally to the location you choose. No data is shared or uploaded until the final step.

The default save location is your computer (or the last used location if you've run an extraction before). If there's enough available storage, click Start Backup.

If not, click the Browse button to select an alternate location.

Click here for help with selecting an alternate save location.

Step 5: Enter Pin

The custodian will be prompted to enter the phone’s password directly on the device to grant permission to begin the extraction.

Step 6: Wait about an hour while the Hearsay Extractor runs.

Once the time and loading bars appear, the extraction has successfully started.

The extraction time will vary based on the amount of data on the phone, the computer’s performance, the USB connection, and the save location.

Plan for the process to take at least an hour, though it may be faster or slower depending on your hardware.

When you see the message Device backup is now completed, the extraction is complete and the phone can be unplugged.


Click Okay to proceed with selecting and sharing messages.

Turn off Developer Mode – Android users:


Please turn off Developer Mode on your phone to restore your original security settings. Click here for instructions.


Next steps

Once your extraction is complete, continue to one of the following articles based on how you'd like to share the data:


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