Chatlog — Chat Data Export & Analysis Tool

Introduction

Chatlog is an open-source tool that helps users export, decrypt, and analyze their own chat data from messaging applications. It puts users in control of their conversation history by making it accessible in standard formats for backup, search, and analysis.

What Chatlog Does

• Exports chat history from local message databases
• Decrypts encrypted message storage for user-owned data access
• Converts conversations to searchable plain text and structured formats
• Provides analytics on messaging patterns and frequency
• Supports batch export across multiple chat groups and contacts

Architecture Overview

Chatlog is written in Go for performance and cross-platform support. It reads local message database files, handles decryption of the storage format, and outputs data in JSON, CSV, or plain text. The tool operates entirely locally — no data is sent to external servers. A web UI is available for visual exploration of exported data.

Self-Hosting & Configuration

• Build from source with Go 1.20+ or download pre-built binaries
• Point the tool at the local message database directory
• No external services or API keys required
• Exported data stays entirely on your machine
• Optional web dashboard for browsing and searching chat history

Key Features

• Fully local processing with no cloud dependency
• Handles encrypted database decryption for user-owned data
• Multiple export formats: JSON, CSV, HTML, plain text
• Built-in search and analytics for conversation patterns
• Web-based viewer for browsing exported conversations

Comparison with Similar Tools

• Manual database export — requires SQL knowledge; Chatlog automates the process
• Third-party backup apps — often cloud-based; Chatlog is fully local and open-source
• Platform export features — limited formats; Chatlog provides richer structured output
• SQLite browsers — generic; Chatlog understands the specific message database schema

FAQ

Q: Is my data sent anywhere? A: No, Chatlog runs entirely locally. No data leaves your machine.

Q: What platforms does it support? A: It currently focuses on popular messaging platforms with local database storage.

Q: Do I need technical knowledge to use it? A: Basic CLI familiarity is helpful, but the web viewer makes browsing results accessible.

Q: Is this legal to use? A: Exporting your own chat data for personal use is generally permitted. Review your platform's terms of service.

Sources

• https://github.com/sjzar/chatlog