How To Delete Messages and Attachments from iMessage

Users in the Apple ecosystem have access to the extremely convenient iMessage system and the Messages application that goes alongside it. It allows for a near-instant syncing of messages across a multitude of different Apple devices such as Mac, iPhone, iPad and even the Apple Watch. However, deleting messages permanently may be a tricky process, depending on the exact needs of the user. 

Removing Messages from Mac Only

If you want to get rid of some messages on your Mac but leave them on your other devices, then you will have to disable Messages in iCloud. 

1. Start by launching Messages.
2. Open the Messages Menu and select 'Preferences.'
3. Choose 'iMessage.'
4. Find the 'Enable Messages in iCloud' option and uncheck it. 
5. Close 'Preferences.'

Afterward, whenever you delete a message, it will stay deleted on your Mac only. 

Deleting Messages via Terminal

While many users may find Terminal intimidating, it is a rather versatile tool that can oftentimes achieve the same end result in less time. Here is how you can use Terminal to delete messages:

1. Go to your Applications folder. Open 'Utilities.' Launch Terminal
2. Paste the rm –r ~/Library/Messages/chat command in the Terminal window.
3. If you want to delete attachments, use the rm –r ~/Library/Messages/Attachments/?? command. 

Deleting Messages from the Messages Application

You can also delete messages from the application itself. 

1. Launch Messages.
2. Right-click the conversation you want to remove.
3. Choose 'Delete Conversation' from the available options.
4. Confirm your decision by clicking 'Delete.

To delete singular messages and not the whole conversation, use this method:

1. Right-click the message you wish to remove.
2. Select 'Delete.'
3. Confirm your decision. 

Removing Attachments from Messages

If they will remove attachments instead of messages, users either can try the two methods outlined below. 

1. Open Finder. Select the 'Go' menu. Choose 'Go to Folder.' Paste the destination ~/Library/Messages/Attachments and hit 'Go.' Drag all items located there to the Trash. 

2. On newer macOS versions, users can click on the Apple menu and then select 'About This Mac.' Open the 'Storage' tab and click on 'Manage.' Select 'Messages' from the sidebar. You will be presented with a list of all the attachments on the Mac. Select the ones you wish to remove and press 'Delete.'