Can iPhones Get Viruses?
Apple’s iPhone is one of the most popular smartphones in the world. With its sleek design and user-friendly iOS operating system, the iPhone seems nearly impervious to security threats. But is it really as safe as Apple wants you to believe? Can iPhones get viruses and malware like Android phones?
How iOS Security Works
Apple takes security very seriously. Unlike the more open Android platform, Apple strictly controls what apps can be installed on iOS devices. Apple thoroughly vets new apps submitted to the iOS App Store to try to prevent malicious software from being distributed through the official channels.
But iOS isn’t completely immune to viruses and malware. There are still a few ways malicious software can find its way onto an iPhone:
Jailbreaking
Jailbreaking removes the security restrictions on an iPhone so users can install apps outside of the App Store. While jailbreaking enables greater customization, it also increases the risk of downloading apps containing nefarious code. Jailbreaking is not required for most iPhone users.
Malicious Links
Just like other devices, iPhones can be exposed to malware by visiting compromised websites or clicking on malicious links. These can attempt to install malware through vulnerabilities in the iOS browser. Links sent via email, text messages or social media carry the greatest risk. The cybersecurity experts at VPNpro have compiled a list of the best antivirus for iPhones. It’s worth checking these out if you often browse on your phone.
Infected Computers
Connecting an iPhone to a computer infected with malware provides a pathway for that malicious software to migrate onto the device, especially if backups or syncs are performed. This method is less common than malicious links but can still occur.
Examples of iOS Malware
While Apple’s tight control of iOS has limited the spread of malware, some malicious apps and vulnerabilities have affected iPhones over the years:
- Pegasus spyware – Developed by the NSO Group, this sophisticated spyware exploited vulnerabilities in iOS to infiltrate iPhones and extract messages, calls, photos, and location data. It was used to target journalists and human rights activists.
- XcodeGhost – A malicious version of Apple’s Xcode developer tools was distributed in China, resulting in infected apps in the App Store. These apps could read data from the device and hijack advertising revenue.
- KeyRaider – This malware specifically targeted jailbroken iPhones, changing default repositories to install infected apps capable of stealing Apple IDs and passwords as well as encrypting and holding data for ransom.
- ZergHelper – A Chinese malware app that used enterprise certificate trickery to spread while posing as a network tool. It had extensive data access permissions that could have enabled spying capabilities.
How to Protect Your iPhone from Malware
The iPhone’s inherent security and Apple’s oversight make viruses very rare, but not impossible. Here are some tips to keep your iPhone safe:
- Only install apps from the official App Store, avoid jailbreaking.
- Keep your iPhone up-to-date with the latest iOS versions.
- Don’t click suspicious links from unknown sources.
- Use secure Wi-Fi networks and VPNs in public places.
- Install an iOS anti-malware app for extra protection.
- Avoid syncing your iPhone with unknown computers.
While iPhones have great baseline security, following these best practices provides additional peace of mind and reduces the already slim chances of iOS malware infection even further. With just a bit of precaution, you can securely enjoy all that your iPhone has to offer.