You generally don't need to scan a standard iPhone for viruses because Apple's iOS has strong built-in security, but scanning might be wise if you've jailbroken it, sideloaded apps, use risky public Wi-Fi, or notice performance issues like rapid battery drain or strange pop-ups, in which case reputable security apps or a factory reset can help.
iPhones typically don't need antivirus software due to Apple's built-in security protections. However, jailbroken devices, those missing updates or those with disabled security features may… iPhones typically don't need antivirus software due to Apple's built-in security protections.
You must also be signed in to Settings > [your name] on your iPhone. (To find the software version installed on your device, go to Settings > General, then tap About.) To access Safety Check, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Safety Check.
You know your iPhone might have a virus or malware if you see unfamiliar apps, frequent crashes, rapid battery drain, overheating, excessive data usage, or persistent pop-up ads, especially if these symptoms appear together and your phone feels sluggish or acts unusually. While true viruses are rare on un-jailbroken iPhones, these signs point to malicious software, often from suspicious downloads, that can be detected by checking app behavior, data usage in Settings, and looking for unusual device management profiles.
No, virus warnings on iPhones are not real. These pop-up notifications disguised as virus warnings are scams, typically including a link that will attempt to infect your phone if you click it. It's important to remember that iPhones block scams, viruses and bugs automatically without notifying the user.
How to to remove a virus on iPhone
For iOS, use Apple's Safety Check: To check if your iPhone has been hacked, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Safety Check. This tool helps you review and revoke the access you've granted to people, apps, and devices, which is a common way iPhones are compromised.
Three-finger gestures on iPhone primarily activate accessibility features like VoiceOver (for screen reading and navigation) and Zoom (magnification), allowing scrolling, zooming, and text manipulation (copy/paste/undo) with specific taps and drags, though some text actions work without VoiceOver enabled for quick editing. Common gestures include three-finger double-tap to toggle VoiceOver speech, triple-tap for the screen curtain, and pinching/spreading with three fingers for copy/paste actions, notes this YouTube video.
macOS includes built-in antivirus technology called XProtect for the signature-based detection and removal of malware.
Use a device passcode or password and Face ID or Touch ID. For better security, you can set a passcode on your device — or login password on your Mac — to help protect your data. Use Face ID or Touch ID if your device supports it. Keep your software up to date.
Restarting your iPhone may clear temporary files and processes, isolating the malware long enough for you to back up your data. However, this is unlikely to remove the virus completely since malware typically embeds itself deeper into the operating system or installed apps.
If you see a pop-up saying your iPhone has “14 viruses” or a “privacy breach,” it's not real. These are fake warnings trying to scare you into installing something you don't need.
When checking your iPhone for viruses, first check for unfamiliar apps. If you see an unfamiliar app you don't remember downloading onto your iPhone, delete it immediately, because it could contain a virus. You can check if the app is an officially sanctioned iOS-compatible app by checking Apple's App Store.
Symptoms of a viral infection depend on where you're infected, but some common ones include:
You can double-tap or triple-tap the back of iPhone to perform actions such as taking a screenshot, turning on an accessibility feature, running a shortcut, and more. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap. Choose Double Tap or Triple Tap, then choose an action.
*3001#12345#* on an iPhone activates the hidden Field Test Mode, a diagnostic tool for network engineers and power users to see detailed cellular data like signal strength (dBm), cell tower info, and network quality, accessible by dialing the code in the Phone app and pressing call, often after turning off Wi-Fi for accurate cellular readings.
Messages automatically uses the following screen effects for specific text strings:
12 signs that your phone is hacked
Keep an eye out for significant changes in device temperature and battery life, as these might indicate remote access. During calls, pay attention to any strange noises or voices, as they could indicate unauthorized call monitoring or recording. Be cautious of increased service messages and pop-up ads.
Apple notifies you (notification or email) about account activity that you don't recognize (for example, if your Apple Account was signed in to on a device that you don't recognize or your password was changed but you didn't change it).
Top 7 signs of an iPhone virus to know ASAP
Having a VPN an iPhone ensures its security and privacy. Not only does this help protect sensitive data such as personal details, bank accounts, and credit card information, but it minimizes the ability of Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and third parties to track activity and create targeted advertising.
AVG AntiVirus FREE offers virus protection for iPhone and other devices, too. Check out other privacy and performance tools to find the right solution for your needs.