Can iPhones get viruses?

Apple® has an excellent reputation for security. So much so that you may hear people claim that an iPhone® can't get a virus. But that's not exactly true—malware and viruses can harm any device, including iPhones. Prevention is key to keeping your favorite smartphone safe from harmful software.

Asurion Experts help millions of people get the most from their tech. Whether you're wondering how to set up a new iPhone or want to know the benefits of McAfee® virus protection, count on us for straightforward guidance. So, can iPhones get viruses? Learn what behaviors compromise your device and easy ways to protect it.

Why iPhones are less vulnerable to viruses

Apple has several unique protocols to keep your iPhone safe. They include:

• Stringent app vetting: This is a thorough review of new apps for security vulnerabilities before they're added to the Apple App Store®.
• App sandboxing: This security feature isolates an app's access to the iPhone's system files and user data. It's required of all apps distributed through the Apple App Store.
• Frequent security patches: Apple regularly releases security updates and patches when it detects a new vulnerability.

These tools keep threats at bay, but they're not 100% foolproof. Hackers may circumvent them to compromise your device.

How iPhones can still be compromised

iPhones are designed with strong security features to keep your information safe, but some people find these limits restrictive. To get around them, some users “jailbreak” their device, which means removing Apple’s built-in safeguards. Doing so gives full control over the iPhone, allowing different operating systems or apps from outside the App Store. The downside? These apps may carry hidden malware, and jailbroken phones no longer get Apple’s important security updates, leaving them more vulnerable.

Phishing is another common way iPhones can be exposed to threats. Hackers often send text messages, emails, or pop-ups with links that look safe but actually install malware when tapped. Unsafe profiles are another risk—things like misconfigured VPNs or remote access tools can give hackers an opening to your device.

Signs your iPhone may be infected

Think your iPhone may have a virus? One symptom is rapid battery drain. Malware requires lots of energy to run, so if you need to charge your phone more frequently than you used to, it could be the culprit.

Another sign is data overages. If your cell phone bill lists more data usage than normal, try to pinpoint the cause. You can view your current data use through the iPhone's monitoring tools.

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Cellular.
3. View your total data usage during the period and by app.

Apps that frequently crash or behave unexpectedly could contain malware. And pop-ups and mysterious apps you don't remember downloading are major red flags indicating a compromised iPhone.

Protect your iPhone from viruses

No one wants to deal with a virus-infected iPhone. Follow these tips to protect your device:

• Install security updates. Download and install iOS updates as soon as Apple releases them. These updates include fixes for vulnerabilities and help keep your phone secure.
• Avoid suspicious messages and websites. Don’t click links in emails, texts, or pop-ups from unknown sources. If you land on a website that looks suspicious, exit right away and go to a trusted page.
• Don’t jailbreak your device. Jailbreaking removes Apple’s built-in protections, leaving your phone open to malware. Stick to Apple’s iOS and apps from the official App Store.

What to do if you suspect malware on your iPhone

Review your installed apps and delete any that you don't recognize or no longer use. Developers may stop providing support for older apps, which hackers may compromise to gain access to your device.

Check for any available iOS updates that may contain security patches. To do so, follow these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap General > Software Update.
3. Follow the prompts to download and install updates.

Clearing your Safari® data eliminates stored tracking cookies and browsing data that may house malware.

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Apps > Safari.
3. Tap Clear History and Website Data.

FAQ

Can downloading apps outside the App Store increase risk?

Apps downloaded from non-Apple sources may contain unknown security vulnerabilities. To minimize threats, only download apps from the App Store.

What signs indicate my iPhone might be infected?

Frequent pop-ups, excess data use, and swift battery drainage indicate that an iPhone might have a virus.

How can I remove malware from an iPhone?

Removing iPhone and iPad® viruses starts with resetting the device to its factory settings. A reset deletes all non-Apple apps and personal data that may contain malware.