Can iPhones Get Viruses?

Can iPhones get viruses? In short, yes, although it's relatively rare. Apple's iOS is a "closed ecosystem," and Apple maintains strict control over the hardware, software, and that can be installed on an iPhone. This tight integration and control make it harder for viruses to penetrate the system and spread themselves.

Of course, that's a simplistic explanation of the issue, and there's much more nuance to the issue of viruses on iPhones. Read on as we explore it in detail.

The Likelihood of Viruses on iPhones

A virus is a specific type of malware that can replicate itself and spread from one device to another. It usually attaches itself to a legitimate program or file and can cause harm by corrupting or destroying data. 

However, on iPhones, It is much rarer to get a virus on your iPhone than on another mobile device like an Android phone. The same is true for viruses on an Apple Macbook or iMac computer compared to a Windows PC or desktop. That’s because Apple's iOS and Mac operating systems both use a closed ecosystem. Apple maintains strict control over the hardware, software, and even the apps that can be installed on an iPhone. This tight integration and control make it harder for viruses to penetrate the system and spread themselves.

Plus, iOS apps operate in a "sandbox" environment, which means they are restricted in what they can do and access on the device. This limits the potential damage that a virus could do even if it did manage to get onto the device. Unlike Android, iOS does not easily allow users to install apps from anywhere other than the official App Store, where apps are very carefully vetted, making it much less likely that you’ll download a compromised app or virus.

All this reduces the risk of users inadvertently installing viruses unless their phone is jailbroken, which removes those security measures. Still, your iPhone isn’t completely immune to problems. Like all devices, iPhones can be the target of malicious software called malware through a phishing attack or by visiting a malicious website.

How to Protect Yourself

Even though the chances of getting an iPhone virus are slim, it’s a good idea to safeguard your iPhone from digital threats. You can do this in a few easy ways.

1. Update your iOS: Updating your iPhone’s iOS is a great and simple way to prevent viruses. Updates often include security patches that fix vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious software. ‍
2. Don’t download anything suspicious: If an app isn’t on the Apple App Store, try to avoid it. That’s the best way to make sure that all the applications on your phone are verified and virus-free.‍
3. Use an anti-malware app: It’s also a good idea to download and regularly use an antivirus app to scan your iPhone. Anti-malware apps from developers like Avast are a free and easy way to keep your phone clean and running smoothly for years to come.‍
4. Stay away from suspicious websites: Just like you shouldn’t download suspicious files, you should also not visit any suspicious websites. Try to keep your web browsing to sites with SSL certification or a padlock symbol in the address bar.‍
5. Use a VPN: A VPN or virtual private network is a handy tool when browsing online using a public Wi-Fi network on your iOS device. Hackers sometimes set up what’s called a “Wi-Fi pineapple,” or a fake free Wi-Fi network, to get access to your data when you inadvertently connect to the fake Wi-Fi network. By using a VPN to mask your IP address, you make your iPhone that much harder to hack by a would-be identity thief or digital criminal.

The Bottom Line

While iPhones probably won’t get viruses, they are not immune to other malware. But it’s possible to prevent malware infection on your iPhone with some common-sense strategies. Even if your phone has already been compromised, there are steps you can take to remove the malware.

If your iPhone is compromised beyond repair, or just isn’t working as well as it used to, it might be time for a new mobile device. That’s where our Phone Deal Finder can help. It’s free, unbiased, and shows you the best iPhone deals you qualify for from top carriers based on your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if my iPhone has a virus?

To determine if your iPhone has a virus, look for unexpected behaviors such as frequent crashes, unusual pop-ups, excessive battery drain, overheating, or unexpected data usage. If you notice any of these issues, it may be a sign of malware. While iPhones are generally secure, these symptoms warrant further investigation, such as resetting your device or seeking professional assistance. 

How do I clean my iPhone from viruses?

To clean your iPhone from viruses, start by updating to the latest iOS version, which includes security patches. Remove any suspicious apps you don’t recognize and clear your browsing history and data from Safari. You can also reset your device to factory settings if issues persist. Afterward, restore your data from a backup made before the problems began. If you're still concerned, consider consulting Apple Support for professional assistance.

Do iPhones get viruses from websites?

iPhones are less susceptible to viruses from websites compared to other devices due to their robust security features and the way iOS is designed. However, visiting malicious sites can still lead to phishing attempts or the installation of harmful profiles. It's important to be cautious and avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading untrusted apps. Keeping your iOS updated and using features like Safari's fraud prevention can help enhance security.