iPhones are generally very secure devices that are not susceptible to viruses like computers. However, it is still possible for iPhones to become infected with malware. Doing periodic virus scans can help detect and remove any malicious software that may have made its way onto your device.
There are a few different options for scanning your iPhone for viruses and malware. The easiest options are to use built-in security tools from Apple or download a dedicated antivirus app from the App Store. You can also connect your iPhone to a computer and scan it from there.
Here are some quick answers to common questions about iPhone virus scans:
Can iPhones get viruses?
Yes, iPhones can get infected with malware and viruses, but it is less common than on Android devices and computers. iPhones have strong built-in security that helps prevent infections.
How can malware get on my iPhone?
Malware most often gets on iPhones when users install apps from outside the official App Store, click malicious links, or use a public USB charging station. Jailbreaking also increases risk.
When should I scan my iPhone for viruses?
It’s a good idea to periodically scan your iPhone for malware, such as once a month. You should also scan your phone if you notice strange behavior or problems that could indicate an infection.
Does scanning my iPhone slow it down?
Scanning your iPhone for malware should not noticeably slow down your device. Modern security apps are designed to use minimal system resources.
Using Built-in Security Tools
Apple provides built-in security tools you can use to check your iPhone for infections and remove any malware found:
Enable Find My iPhone
Find My iPhone allows you to remotely lock or erase your iPhone if it becomes lost or stolen. It also helps locate malware and allows for remote removal in some cases. To enable it:
- Open the Settings app
- Tap your Apple ID profile
- Turn on Find My iPhone
You’ll need to be signed in to your iCloud account for this feature to work.
Check for Unknown Profiles and Certificates
Malware sometimes installs unauthorized profiles and certificates to infect iOS devices. You can check for anything suspicious under Settings > General > Profiles & Device Management. Remove anything you don’t recognize.
Update to the Latest iOS Version
Apple releases regular iOS updates that include security patches and malware removal tools. Make sure you install the latest iOS updates as soon as they become available. This will help protect your iPhone from emerging threats.
You can check for updates under Settings > General > Software Update.
Restore Your iPhone
If other options fail to remove malware from your iPhone, you may need to perform a factory reset. This will wipe your device back to factory settings, removing any infections.
To reset, go to Settings > General > Reset and tap “Erase All Content and Settings”. Be sure to backup your iPhone data first.
Using a Security App
In addition to built-in tools, there are dedicated antivirus and security apps you can download from the App Store to scan your iPhone and provide ongoing protection against malware and other mobile threats.
Here are some top options to consider:
Norton Mobile Security
Norton Mobile Security offers real-time antivirus, web protection, a firewall, anti-theft and call blocking. It can scan apps before you download them and monitor network traffic for signs of malicious activity.
McAfee Mobile Security
With McAfee you get antivirus, web and network protection, privacy services, password manager, WiFi scanner and more. It allows scanning individual apps or your entire iPhone.
TotalAV Antivirus
TotalAV delivers antivirus scans, system optimization, app locking, real-time protection, system monitor, identity protection, browser security and parental controls.
Avast Mobile Security
Avast provides efficient antivirus scanning, web security, anti-theft, firewall, network scanner, duplicate photo cleaner and app locking capabilities.
Lookout Security & Antivirus
Lookout is a customizable mobile security option that protects iOS and Android devices. It blocks phishing sites, scans downloads and provides identity theft monitoring.
The best iPhone antivirus will provide comprehensive malware protection and suit your unique needs. Compare features carefully before choosing an app.
Scanning Your iPhone with a Computer
You can also use a Mac or PC to scan your iPhone for potential infections:
On a Mac
To scan your iPhone from a Mac, first install antivirus software such as Norton, Intego Mac Internet Security or Avast Security. Next, connect your iPhone to your Mac via USB and open the antivirus program. It will scan your connected iPhone for any malware or viruses.
You can also use the Apple Configurator 2 app to scan an iPhone when it’s connected to a Mac. Open the app, click your connected iPhone, and select “Check for infection”.
On a PC
Similarly, you can install antivirus software like Norton or McAfee on a Windows PC, connect your iPhone, and scan for malware.
Some things to try on a PC:
– Open Windows Defender and select Scan now after connecting your phone.
– Use Malwarebytes to scan your iPhone.
– Install Bitdefender or AVG Antivirus and use the scan feature.
– Try the free Lookout app from the Microsoft Store.
Just remember to first install reputable antivirus software on your computer to enable iPhone scanning. Check the program’s help guide for detailed instructions if needed.
What to Do if Malware is Detected
If your iPhone scan detects any malware, viruses or other threats, here are some steps to take:
Quarantine the malware
Your security app should automatically quarantine or isolate detected malware to prevent further damage. Don’t delete malware right away in case your security provider needs samples to analyze.
Determine the source
Figure out where the malware came from. Did you recently download a new app outside the App Store? Visit a sketchy website? Knowing the source helps prevent future infections.
Run a full scan
Scan your entire iPhone again to check for any additional infections the first scan may have missed. Also scan connected devices that could have spread the malware.
Change passwords
Malware may have stolen passwords or other sensitive info. Change passwords for iCloud, email, social media, banking, shopping sites and any other accounts as a precaution.
Restore your iPhone
If the malware cannot be fully removed by your security app, you may need to wipe your iPhone and restore from a backup. Be sure to only restore a backup made before the infection.
Update iOS
Install the latest iOS update, which may include a patch for the vulnerability the malware exploited. Keeping iOS up-to-date helps strengthen your iPhone’s security.
Avoid reinfection
Be careful to avoid visiting sites or downloading apps that led to infection originally. Stick to the App Store for new apps and be wary of links, popups and downloads.
Best Practices for iPhone Security
In addition to periodic scans, following security best practices helps protect your iPhone from malware in the first place:
- Keep iOS updated and use the latest iPhone model if possible.
- Only download apps from the official App Store.
- Don’t jailbreak your iPhone, which disables security features.
- Watch out for phishing emails, texts, calls and links.
- Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
- Back up your iPhone regularly.
- Avoid public USB charging stations.
- Turn on Find My iPhone.
- Don’t connect to public WiFi networks for sensitive tasks like shopping or banking.
Following these tips will help keep your iPhone malware-free and secure. But it’s still a good idea to periodically scan your device for infections.
Scanning an iPhone for Viruses: Step-by-Step
Here is a step-by-step overview of how to scan an iPhone for viruses and other malware:
Step 1: Update your iPhone
Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any available iOS updates. Staying up-to-date improves security.
Step 2: Download a security app (optional)
Download a trusted security app from the App Store, such as Norton, McAfee or Avast. Subscription fees may apply for full protection.
Step 3: Configure the app
Open the app and follow the setup prompts. Enable real-time protection and auto-scanning if desired. Grant necessary permissions.
Step 4: Scan your iPhone
Open the app and start a manual scan. Scans may take 5-30 minutes. An initial full scan is recommended.
Step 5: Review the results
The app will notify you if any security threats were found. Quarantine or remove any malicious apps or files.
Step 6: Scan connected devices (optional)
Your iPhone malware may have spread. Scan any connected Macs, PCs or other smartphones.
Step 7: Reset if needed
If malware persists, backup your iPhone then reset to factory settings via Settings. Restore from your clean backup.
Conclusion
Although not as high risk as desktops, iPhones can still become infected by malware and viruses under certain circumstances. Taking some time to periodically scan your iPhone using security tools and best practices can help keep it protected against malicious threats.
Builtin iOS security features from Apple provide a good starting point for malware detection and removal. For enhanced ongoing protection, a dedicated mobile security app from a trusted provider is recommended.
If your iPhone is exhibiting unusual behavior, crashes, or speed issues, it’s a good idea to perform a scan soon to check for infections. Catching malware early prevents more significant iPhone performance and security issues down the road.