Will updating iOS remove malware?

As smartphones become more widely used, malware targeting iOS devices is also on the rise. Malware is software designed to infiltrate devices, steal data, or gain unauthorized access to systems. With each new version of iOS, Apple introduces additional security measures to protect against emerging malware threats. However, some malware is able to bypass protections and infect iOS devices. Updating to the latest version of iOS can remove some malware, but it is not a foolproof solution.

What is iOS malware and how does it infect devices?

iOS malware is software designed to compromise the security of iOS devices like iPhones and iPads. It can take many forms, including:

  • Spyware – tracks activity and collects data like messages, photos, and browsing history.
  • Adware – bombards the device with intrusive advertisements.
  • Ransomware – locks the device and data until a ransom is paid.
  • Trojans – disguises itself as a legitimate app and tricks users into installing it.
  • Keyloggers – records the keys pressed on the device keyboard.
  • Botnets – recruits the device into a network controlled by cybercriminals.

iOS malware often tricks users into installing it through:

  • Fake or compromised apps distributed through third-party app stores.
  • Malicious links sent via email, messaging platforms, or social media.
  • Infected websites that exploit browser vulnerabilities when visited.
  • “Drive-by downloads” that install malware without any action by the user.

Once installed, malware aims to operate undetected in the background, which allows it to steal data, spy, or gain persistence on the device.

Does updating iOS remove existing malware?

Simply updating iOS may remove some malware from infected devices, but it does not guarantee full removal in all cases. There are a few reasons for this:

  • Persistence mechanisms – Sophisticated iOS malware uses techniques like obfuscation and anti-removal logic to avoid detection and deletion.
  • iOS design – The closed iOS ecosystem limits anti-malware analysis and the ability to directly scan for threats.
  • User data access – Malware often masks its presence by embedding code in user data like photos and documents.

For these reasons, updating iOS should not be solely relied upon to remove malware. Additional malware removal steps may be required.

When are iOS updates most likely to remove malware?

Although not guaranteed, iOS updates are most likely to disrupt malware in the following scenarios:

  • The update patches the specific iOS vulnerability exploited by the malware.
  • Significant iOS architecture changes break the malware’s insertion points.
  • The malware relies on older iOS version-specific code and behaviors.
  • The update incorporates improved security screening that detects the malware.

Malware disruptions are more probable with major iOS version updates (e.g. iOS 12 to iOS 13) compared to minor point releases (e.g. iOS 13.1 to iOS 13.2).

What extra steps may be required to remove malware after an iOS update?

Updating iOS could neutralize some malware, but full removal may additionally require:

  • Antivirus scans – Use a reputable iOS antivirus app to identify and clean residual malware.
  • iCloud/iTunes sync – A sync can wipe the device and reload a clean OS and user data.
  • Restore firmware – Completely reinstall iOS through iTunes/Finder to start fresh.
  • Jailbreak removal – Jailbroken devices are prone to infection and may need this reversed.
  • Erase all content and settings – Wipes the device and resets it to factory default settings.

These actions clear out infections missed by the iOS update. However, they also require restoring user data from a clean backup.

What iOS settings help protect against malware?

While no settings provide absolute security from malware, the following iOS configurations help reduce infection risk:

  • Disable sideloading – Blocks installation of unsigned apps from third-party stores.
  • Restrict configuration profiles – Prevents potentially malicious profiles unless explicitly trusted.
  • Disable JavaScript in Safari – Stops web-based malware exploiting browser scripts.
  • Monitor app access privileges – Review and minimize the permissions granted to untrusted apps.
  • Turn on antiphishing protection – Screens sites and links for indicators of phishing attacks.

Combined with updating iOS, these precautions create defense-in-depth against iOS malware.

What risks remain after an iOS update?

While iOS updates can mitigate some threats, risks still remain afterward:

  • Zero-day vulnerabilities undiscovered by Apple leave openings for malware developers.
  • iOS architecture gaps remain that allow insertion of persistent malware.
  • Powerful cybercriminal groups can craft advanced malware able to bypass iOS safeguards.
  • User security errors still occur, like installing fake apps and clicking unsafe links.
  • Jailbroken devices have far weaker defenses against malware infections.

Due to these residual risks, iOS users must maintain device vigilance and employ layered security even after updating.

Key Takeaways

  • Updating iOS can disable some malware, but is not guaranteed to completely remove infections.
  • iOS updates are more likely to disrupt malware that relies on older code or patched vulnerabilities.
  • To fully remove malware, users may need to run antivirus scans, reset the device and more.
  • Settings like disabling sideloading and JavaScript harden iOS against malware insertion.
  • Risks remain after updates from undiscovered iOS flaws, user errors, and advanced malware.

Conclusion

iOS updates provide a vital foundation of malware protection, but should not create a false sense of security. Malware developers deploy innovative techniques to gain persistence and bypass iOS safeguards. To fully protect iOS devices, updating must be combined with configuration precautions, antivirus software, and ongoing user caution.

Moving forward, Apple faces an ongoing challenge to balance usability with stringent enough security to frustrate the efforts of malware authors. Users play a critical role as well by making data backups, understanding malware risks, and thinking twice before clicking suspicious links or installing unvetted apps. Combining the protection layers of device manufacturers, informed users, and security tools remains the most potent formula for defending against the evolving malware threat landscape.

iOS Version Malware Examples Removed
iOS 13 Exodus Spyware
iOS 12 XcodeGhost, KeyRaider
iOS 11 Pegasus, IMSI Catcher