Apple’s iPhone is renowned for its robust security measures. However, no device is entirely immune to cybersecurity threats like viruses or malware. This guide will walk you through spotting malware, the steps to scan your device, and actionable advice to keep your iPhone protected.
Can You Check an iPhone for Viruses?
Absolutely. While iPhones lack a built-in antivirus scanner, there are practical methods to investigate unusual behavior on your device, with expert-level apps available for advanced scanning and detection. Apple’s closed ecosystem and app vetting process in the App Store significantly lower risks. However, malicious apps or phishing attempts can still slip through, which makes routine checks crucial.
Steps to Identify Malware Using iPhone Settings
Even without dedicated virus scanners, your iPhone contains settings that can help you determine whether something suspicious is affecting your device. Follow these steps to check for viruses effectively:
1. Spot Unfamiliar Apps
Start by reviewing your app inventory. Go to Settings, scroll through the list of installed apps, and verify anything unfamiliar. If you discover apps you didn’t download or recognize, they could be potentially harmful. To stay secure, uninstall these apps immediately by holding down their icon in the app drawer and selecting Delete App.
2. Analyze Data Usage Patterns
Unusually high mobile data consumption could be an indicator of an infected device. Malware often consumes data in the background. Access Settings > Mobile Network/Data and evaluate the data usage of each app. Look for unknown, rarely-used apps consuming significant data—this behavior may indicate malicious activity.
3. Monitor App Permissions
Malware sometimes exploits unnecessary app permissions to access sensitive features like your microphone, location, or contacts. To audit these permissions, head to Settings, select an app, and ensure its permissions align with its functionality. Deny access to features that don’t make sense for the app’s purpose.
4. Look for Performance Red Flags
A lagging iPhone, overheating, or frequent app crashes can sometimes suggest malware overworking your phone processor. Excess processor usage causes your phone to slow down or heat up unnecessarily, which is often linked to unbeknownst background processes running malicious code.
5. Check for Storage Spikes
A sudden and unexplained reduction in available storage may be malware-related, though it’s rare on iPhones due to iOS’s security framework. To check storage levels, go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage, reviewing whether unknown apps or files are consuming undue space.
6. Evaluate Battery Drains
Abnormal battery drain could point to malware processes running silently in the background. Use Settings > Battery to check which applications or tasks consume excessive power. Apps unfamiliar or underused but draining considerable battery could function as siphoning malware.
7. Investigate Pop-ups or Unexpected Ads
Experiencing constant pop-ups or redirects to suspicious advertisements? This is a key sign of adware. Ad blockers, which you can enable in Settings > Safari, will help minimize such risks if you suspect your iPhone is affected.
8. Detect Jailbreaking
If your iPhone is jailbroken, its security might already be compromised, increasing its vulnerability to malware. Indicators of jailbreaking include visible apps like "Cydia" or disappearing native apps (e.g., Safari or Mail). A factory reset can restore pre-jailbreaking security settings.
9. Validate Wi-Fi and Network Access
Malware can compromise your iPhone’s network activity without your knowledge. Review Settings > Wi-Fi for suspicious activity—ensuring you're only connected to trusted networks. Similarly, ensure applications you frequently use are not linked to dubious servers.
10. Utilize a Third-Party Security App
If manual checks don't resolve the issue, download a reliable iOS-compatible security app from the App Store. Well-known VPN and privacy-centric tools often include robust antivirus features.
Proactively Safeguard Your iPhone From Malware
Taking measures to protect your iPhone before issues surface will save you time and potential headaches. Below are tried-and-true recommendations to keep your device secure:
Update Regularly
Ensure iOS and App Store apps are updated. Each update shields against vulnerabilities found in earlier software versions.
Avoid Jailbreaking
Although the appeal of extended customization may tempt you, jailbreaking bypasses Apple’s crucial security layers, opening your device to risks.
Be Cautious with Links and Downloads
Avoid downloading from unofficial stores or opening suspicious links in emails and texts. Scams, phishing attempts, or malicious attachments are the common tools malware uses as its gateway.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Double the layer of protection by enabling 2FA, essential for sensitive apps like banking. It ensures secure logins against password-predictive malware.
Why VPN Services are Essential for Added Security
While iPhones come with strong built-in security, using a VPN like Falcon VPN offers an additional layer of protection for your online activities. Falcon VPN which is a free vpn not only ensures your data is encrypted, but it also safeguards your browsing, especially when connected to public Wi-Fi, reducing the risk of malware and phishing attacks.
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Download the VPN Application
Go to falconlinkvpn.com and click the "Download" button for your platform. -
Install the VPN
Once the download is complete, open the installation file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the VPN. -
Launch Falcon VPN
After installation, open the application. Choose a server location from the available list. -
Connect and Enjoy Secure Browsing
Click the “Connect” button to establish a secure connection and enjoy anonymous, private browsing.
Beyond malware detection, consider pairing your iPhone with an efficient VPN service. A Virtual Private Network safeguards your online activities by encrypting data, masking IP addresses, and protecting against untrustworthy public Wi-Fi connections. For example:
Enhanced Privacy
Whether browsing or using apps vulnerable to data breaches, modern VPN solutions bolster security safeguards.
Phishing Prevention
VPN servers flag and block malicious websites trying to inject malware into your iPhone.
Seamless Threat Monitoring
Premium VPN services like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark include heightened threat detection tools, enhancing device-layered security strategies focused on detection.
Maintain Cyber Hygiene for Trouble-Free iPhone Usage
While iPhones offer the industry's best baseline protection, these suggestions will enhance both its longevity and effective malware resistance. Incorporating proactive monitoring, keeping software up-to-date, and leveraging security-related services ensures vulnerabilities aren’t easily exploited. Prevention and awareness remain cornerstones for any tech-savvy smartphone user.
If security and privacy are priorities for your lifestyle, consider pairing today’s advanced malware detection steps with next-gen VPN services available across global providers, seamlessly safeguarding work and personal browsing holistically.
Use Strong and Unique Passwords
A strong, unique password is crucial for protecting your iPhone from viruses and hackers. To help manage complex passwords securely, consider using a reliable password manager for iOS, which can safely store your app logins and other sensitive details.
Avoid Jailbreaking Your iPhone
While jailbreaking your iPhone allows customization, it significantly increases the risk of viruses and hacking. Before making any modifications that could compromise your device’s security, weigh the benefits against the risks of exposing your personal information and making your iPhone vulnerable to threats.
Back Up Your iPhone Regularly
Regular backups are essential to recover your information if your iPhone is ever compromised. To ensure your data is safe, back up your device regularly using iCloud via the Settings menu. This simple step ensures that your important files are protected and can be restored if needed.
Enable Security Settings in Safari
To enhance protection against viruses, enable key security features in Safari. Go to “Settings,” find “Safari,” and turn on “Block Pop-ups” under “General” and “Fraudulent Website Warnings” under “Privacy & Security” to add an extra layer of defense.
Activate Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an excellent way to secure your accounts and prevent unauthorized access to your iPhone. With 2FA, you’ll need to verify your identity with a code sent through SMS, a token, or an app after entering your password. This extra step makes it harder for hackers to break into your accounts, even if they have your password.
Only Download Apps from the App Store
Apps downloaded from the App Store are carefully vetted by Apple, reducing the risk of installing harmful software. Avoid sideloading apps, jailbreaking, or using developer modes, as these methods expose your device to security risks. Stick to the App Store to ensure your iPhone stays safe.
Use a VPN on Public Wi-Fi
A VPN encrypts your internet connection, providing a secure way to browse on public Wi-Fi. While a VPN doesn’t directly prevent viruses, it prevents hackers from stealing sensitive data like passwords and personal details, protecting you from cybercriminals and malware.
Be Cautious with Links
Scammers often use fake websites, emails, and texts to trick you into revealing personal information. To protect yourself, enable Threat Protection on your iOS device. NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature blocks malicious sites and phishing attempts, helping you avoid potentially dangerous pages.
FAQ
Can iPhones get viruses from websites?
Yes, iPhones can get infected by malicious websites. While the likelihood of a traditional virus is low, phishing attacks and malware disguised as harmless downloads are real threats. Be cautious when visiting unfamiliar sites to protect your device.
Does the iPhone have a built-in virus checker?
No, iPhones don’t have traditional antivirus software. However, iOS includes strong security features, such as app sandboxing and strict App Store guidelines, which help keep your device safe from threats.
How can I tell if my iPhone has a virus?
Signs of an infected iPhone include:
- Overheating and battery drain: If your iPhone overheats or drains quickly, unknown processes could be running in the background.
- Strange messages: If your contacts receive odd messages, especially with suspicious links, your iPhone might be compromised.
- Slow performance: If your phone becomes unusually slow, it may be due to malicious activities like cryptocurrency mining or data theft.
- High data usage: Rapid data consumption could indicate malicious activity, such as phishing or unauthorized data transmission.
How do I remove viruses and malware from my iPhone?
To remove viruses or malware from your iPhone:
1. Restart your phone: A simple reboot can sometimes fix the issue.
2. Update iOS: Go to “Settings” > “General” > “Software Update” and install the latest version to close any security gaps.
3. Delete unfamiliar apps: Remove any apps you don’t recognize or trust.
4. Clear browser data: In Safari settings, clear your browsing history and website data.
5. Restore from backup: If the problem persists, restore your iPhone from a clean backup.
Albert Ivan, writer by day, popper by night, is the former senior editor at iTop VPN. He Joined Falcon VPN in 2022 and has since written extensively on the topic of tech, digital privacy & security and internet freedom.
