How can I check if my Apple device has a virus?

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How can I check if my Apple device has a virus

With the rising popularity of Apple devices like the iPhone, iPad, and MacBooks, many users are concerned about the possibility of malware or viruses infecting their devices. However, it is relatively rare for iOS devices like the iPhone and iPad to get infected by viruses due to the closed and controlled nature of the iOS ecosystem.

Macs running macOS are at higher risk compared to iOS, but malware infections are still uncommon. That said, it is still important to be vigilant and know how to check for infections on Apple devices. Here are some of the top ways to check if your Apple device has been infected by a virus or malware.

Checking for viruses on iPhone and iPad

Here are some signs that may indicate your iPhone or iPad has been infected:

  • Sluggish performance – If your iOS device suddenly becomes much slower even after a restart, it could point to a malware infection.
  • High cellular data usage – Malware may be secretly downloading data or using your connection in the background.
  • Pop up ads – Unexpected pop-up ads, especially from outside the browser, are a red flag.
  • Crashing apps – If apps start crashing frequently with no explanation, it may be a sign of infection.
  • Overheating – Some malware strains can cause excessive resource usage that leads to overheating.
  • Weird battery drain – Faster than normal battery drain may indicate malware activity.
  • Unknown charges – Double check your credit card statements and mobile bills for any unknown purchases or charges.

If you notice any of these signs, it may indicate malware. But how do you check and remove viruses from an iPhone or iPad?

Using antivirus apps

There are some antivirus apps available for iOS from reputable cybersecurity companies. These can scan for and detect many types of malware. Some good options include:

  • Norton Mobile Security – Scans for malware and monitors network traffic for signs of attacks.
  • Avast Mobile Security – Provides malware scanning and anti-phishing protection.
  • Malwarebytes – Scans apps, files, and networks for suspicious activity or malware code.
  • TotalAV Antivirus for iOS – Scans for malware and vulnerabilities and provides web protection.

These apps provide both on-demand and real-time scanning. Schedule regular scans with your chosen antivirus app to check for anything malicious.

Using iPhone Backup

You can scan an iPhone backup stored on a computer for any potential infections. Connect the iPhone to the computer, create a backup through iTunes or Finder, and use dedicated antivirus software to scan the backup files and system files for anything suspicious.

Restoring your device

If all else fails, perform a factory reset to wipe your device completely clean. This will remove any malware present. Just be sure to backup your data first before resetting.

Resetting removes any viruses or malware since it erases all data and content and reverts the device to factory settings. Go to Settings > General > Reset to get started. This should fully disinfect your device.

Checking for viruses on Mac

Here are some signs your Mac may have malware or a virus:

  • Performance issues – Frequent freezing, crashing or slowdowns.
  • Pop-ups – Malware may cause a flood of pop-up ads or unwanted windows.
  • Unusual activity – Things like the camera or microphone turning on unexpectedly may point to an infection.
  • Login issues – Having trouble logging into accounts may indicate credential theft.
  • Security alerts – Pay attention to any alerts from your antivirus about detected threats.
  • Browser changes – New toolbars, search engines or home pages being set without your knowledge are suspicious.

Using antivirus software

The best way to check for and remove malware on a Mac is to use a dedicated antivirus program. Here are some top options:

  • Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac – Provides real-time scanning, malware removal, and ransomware protection.
  • Kaspersky Internet Security for Mac – Scans files, apps, emails and web traffic for malware.
  • Avast Security – Blocks viruses, scans networks for vulnerabilities, and prevents phishing.
  • ESET Cyber Security Pro – Uses machine learning to detect emerging threats and provides multi-layered ransomware shields.

Schedule regular full scans with your antivirus software to detect and clean any malware. Enable real-time protections as well to block new infections.

Scanning for standalone malware

Some malware only infects specific parts of the system. Use these additional scanners to check for infections:

  • MalwareBytes – Scans for “adware” and “potentially unwanted programs (PUPs)”.
  • AdwareMedic – Specifically targets adware infections.
  • KnockKnock – Checks for persistently installed malware that survives reboots.
  • Xcode Developer Tools – Contains command line utilities like fs_usage that can detect suspicious filesystem activity.

Reinstalling macOS

For severe infections that antivirus software cannot remove, reinstalling the macOS system software may be necessary. This will fully erase and reinstall macOS, removing any viruses in the process.

To reinstall the OS, restart your Mac into Recovery Mode, connect to the internet, and choose Reinstall macOS from the Utilities window. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the reinstallation.

Protecting your Apple devices from viruses

Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to malware. Here are some tips to keep your Apple devices infection-free:

  • Use antivirus software and keep it updated.
  • Don’t jailbreak iOS devices as it disables security features.
  • Only install apps from the official App Stores.
  • Keep your device OS and software updated.
  • Don’t click on suspicious links or pop-up ads.
  • Use strong passcodes and Touch/Face ID.
  • Backup your device regularly.
  • Avoid public Wi-Fi networks when possible.
  • Don’t root or disable security features on your Mac.

Following best practices greatly reduces your risk. But occasionally scanning with antivirus software and watching for telltale signs of infection lets you detect and terminate any malware that you may pick up.

Conclusion

Although malware and viruses are quite rare on Apple devices, it is possible for them to become infected. The best approach is to take preventative measures and run occasional scans using reputable antivirus software. If your device exhibits suspicious behavior like crashing apps or draining battery, it may have malware. Factory resetting the device can fully remove any infections. Keep software updated, avoid suspicious links and apps, and keep antivirus protections active to keep your Apple devices malware-free.