If you’re an iPhone user and you’re concerned about the safety and security of your device, you’re in the right place. Malware, short for malicious software, poses a significant threat to the integrity of your data, privacy, and overall experience. While iPhones are less prone to malware than other operating systems due to the rigorous security testing of App Store applications, they are not completely immune.

This article will guide you on how to quickly and effectively remove malware from your iPhone while also educating you on the best preventive measures.

Understanding malware

Malware, short for malicious software, is any invasive software created by cybercriminals to steal information and damage computer systems. Some types of malware include:

  • Viruses: A virus is a program that can replicate itself, with little or no human help, aiming to corrupt data or damage your computer. Viruses are often disguised as links, games, valid software, or images with clever marketing titles designed to encourage you to click and open or run them. 
  • Trojans: This program pretends to be useful but has a hidden, harmful purpose. Unlike viruses, trojans don’t make copies of themselves but can cause just as much damage.
  • Ransomware: This type of malware locks your computer or mobile device, and encrypts your important files, then demands a payment to release them. Sometimes, paying the ransom might result in your files being made accessible again, but there’s no guarantee.
  • Spyware: This type of malware tracks your online activities without your or your computer’s knowledge and sends it to a central server where third-party internet service providers, hackers, and scammers exploit this information. 
  • Worm: This virus type replicates and sends copies of itself to other computers through email, websites, or instant messaging. Other types are classified as @m or @mm, showing that they primarily spread through email or mass email, such as mass-mailing worm W32/Klez.e@MM.

How iPhones get infected with malware

Because of Apple’s secure ecosystem, iPhones are not usually directly attacked by malware. Apps are sandboxed to prevent them from accessing data from other apps or modifying the core system. This, combined with the strict review process for the App Store, significantly reduces risk. However, these features are preventative, not reactive. They don’t actively scan for threats in real-time like a traditional antivirus program, and can’t protect you from every danger.

iPhones get infected through social engineering attacks such as phishing links sent via text or email, such as a fake alert from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about a tax refund, with a link that leads to a malicious site. Another type of attack occurs when IT admins unknowingly install malicious configuration profiles, which can grant broad permissions to attackers and are often found on unofficial app websites. Connecting to a compromised public Wi-Fi network at an airport or coffee shop can also expose your device.

Failing to install the latest iOS updates leaves your device vulnerable to known exploits. The riskiest action is jailbreaking your iPhone, which dismantles Apple’s built-in security features, leaving it wide open to threats.

In recent years, an iPhone vulnerability was discovered where advanced spyware like Pegasus could compromise the device through no-click, zero-day exploits.

Recognizing malware signs

Recognizing the signs of malware on your iPhone can be tricky. Some malicious software operates stealthily in the background while others wreak havoc in plain sight. Here is a quick diagnostic checklist of common signs you can look out for:

  • Unexpected battery drain: Go to Settings > Battery. Are unfamiliar apps consuming a large amount of power? This can be a sign of malware running in the background.
  • High data consumption: Check your usage under Settings > Cellular. If your data usage is spiking unexpectedly, malicious software could be sending your information to a remote server.
  • Constant pop-up ads: While some ads are normal in browsers or free apps, a sudden increase in pop-ups, especially outside of your browser, is a major red flag for adware.
  • Unrecognized configuration profiles: Navigate to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management. If you see any profiles that you don’t recognize, they could be malicious and should be removed.
  • Unexplained changes in your iPhone’s behavior: This includes apps crashing frequently, phone settings being altered without your input, or unfamiliar apps appearing on your device. 

If you notice two or more of these signs, it’s time to take action. Run a scan with a trusted security app like McAfee Mobile Security to diagnose and address potential threats immediately.

Run a malware scan on your iPhone and iPad

If you suspect that your iPhone or iPad is infected with malware, you can follow several methods to know for certain and take action:

Using iOS built-in settings

  • Review Safari settings: Go to Settings > Safari. Ensure that Block Pop-ups and Fraudulent Website Warning are enabled. This is your first line of defense against malicious web-based threats. You can also select Clear History and Website Data to remove any lingering trackers or cookies from suspicious sites.
  • Inspect device management profiles: Navigate to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management, where configuration profiles are installed. Legitimate apps, like those for work or school, may use these. However, this is also a primary entry point for spyware. If you see a profile you do not recognize or trust, select it and tap Remove Profile.
  • Check analytics & improvements data: For advanced users, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Analytics & Improvements and view Analytics Data. Repeated entries showing an unknown app crashing or unusual error messages can point to hidden malware.

Using mobile security solutions

Manual checks are valuable diagnostic steps and serve as an excellent complement to the deep system and web scanning provided by security solutions like McAfee Mobile Security, which automates threat detection and offers continuous protection. Follow these steps to start scanning with a trusted solution:

Update your iOS: Before scanning, ensure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS. Go to Settings > General > Software Update. Apple’s updates frequently contain critical security patches.

Install mobile security: Go to the official App Store, search for reputable security solutions like McAfee Mobile Security, and install it. This is a crucial step in any guide to remove malware from an iPhone.

Scan your device: Open the app and follow the instructions to run a scan. This is usually a straightforward process where you simply click “Scan” to start the process.

Review and act on results: Once the scan is complete, review the findings. McAfee will flag potential threats and recommend actions, such as quarantining or deleting malicious files.

Reboot and rescan: After removing the threats, restart your device. Run one more scan to ensure the malware has been eradicated. If issues persist, consider contacting Apple Support for further diagnostics. For ongoing protection, keep your security app active.

Step-by-Step Guide to removing malware

You’ve confirmed that your iPhone has contracted malware. What now? Your next step is to safely remove the malware. It’s important to note that the removal process can vary slightly depending on the type of malware involved. In some cases, you might be able to remove the malware simply by uninstalling a suspicious application, while other cases will merit a complete device reset. Before resorting to drastic measures, however, it is best to start with basic steps:

Step 1: Clear history and website data: Start by clearing your browsing history and website data. Navigate to Settings > Safari, and click on ‘Clear History and Website Data’. Remember that this will remove your browsing history, cookies, and other browsing data.

Step 2: Check for unfamiliar apps: Scroll through your installed apps and check for any that you don’t recognize. If you spot anything unfamiliar, delete it immediately. These could be the source of the malware.

Step 3: Update iOS: Keeping your device updated is a crucial step to removing and preventing malware. Ensure your iOS is updated to the latest version. Apple frequently releases updates to patch security vulnerabilities.

Step 4: Download a security app: A number of security apps are available for the iPhone like McAfee+. This app will scan your device for any threats and help you remove them effectively.

Advanced malware removal and prevention

If you’ve taken the above steps and your iPhone still shows signs of a malware infection, it’s time to take more extreme steps.

Step 1: Enable airplane mode: Switching your iPhone to Airplane mode can halt any ongoing attacks by severing your device’s connection to the internet. This is not a permanent solution but gives you time to figure out your next steps.

Step 2: Reset your iPhone: If your iPhone is still showing signs of malware after all the steps you took, you may need to reset your device. This should be your last resort as it will erase all your data. Make sure to back up any important files before doing this.

Step 3: Restore to a previous backup: If you regularly back up your iPhone data, you can restore your device to a backup made before the date you suspect your iPhone was infected.

Step 4: Regularly update your apps and iOS: Ensure that you regularly update your apps and iOS as these updates often include security patches that can keep malware at bay.

Step 5: Use a security app: Last but not least, keep a security app like McAfee+ on your iPhone. This will add an extra layer of protection against malware.

A factory reset is a powerful tool for iPhone malware removal because it erases all data and settings, including the malicious code. But remember, it should be used as a last resort when other methods fail. 

Bonus hint: How to remove malware from an iPad

The process of removing malware from an iPad is largely the same, because iPadOS is based on iOS. Both devices share many underlying security features and functionalities.

7 tips to block malware from your iPhone

As a mobile device user, generally being conscious of the websites you visit, the files you download, and the applications you install can significantly reduce the risk of malware. Additionally, regularly updating your iOS can fortify your device’s security, as these updates often contain critical patches for vulnerabilities that malware might exploit. Here is a more detailed list of guidelines to protect your phone:

  • Keep iOS updated: Always install the latest iOS updates as soon as they are available to patch security flaws.
  • Use the official App Store: Only download applications from the Apple App Store to avoid sideloading malicious apps.
  • Avoid jailbreaking: Never jailbreak your iPhone. It removes Apple’s core security protections, making your device vulnerable.
  • Use strong authentication: Secure your device with a complex passcode and enable Face ID or Touch ID.
  • Beware of suspicious links: Do not click on unexpected links in emails, text messages, or social media.
  • Use a VPN on public Wi-Fi: Protect your data from snooping by using a reputable virtual private network on unsecured networks.
  • Install mobile security: Use an app like McAfee Mobile Security for continuous monitoring and protection from malware.

Key McAfee Mobile Security features

As smartphones become prime targets for cyber threats, having reliable, comprehensive mobile protection is essential. McAfee Mobile Security offers a robust suite of tools designed to safeguard your device, data, and privacy. Below are the key features that make McAfee Mobile Security a strong ally in keeping your smartphone safe from digital threats:

  • Identity Monitoring: Actively scans the dark web and alerts you if your personal information, like your email or passwords, is found in a data breach. This is crucial for securing your online banking and shopping accounts.
  • Secure VPN: Encrypts your internet connection, making your online activity private and secure, especially on public Wi-Fi. This is essential for users who travel or use their iPhones for telehealth appointments where privacy is paramount.
  • Wi-Fi threat detection: Automatically scans the Wi-Fi network you’re connected to and warns you if it’s unsecure, protecting your sensitive data from being intercepted.
  • Safe browsing: Blocks you from visiting malicious websites and phishing links in real-time, preventing you from accidentally giving away your login credentials to scam websites or downloading malware.
  • System scan: Checks your iOS for the latest updates and scans for system-level threats, providing another layer of security to ensure your device’s core protections are active and working.

Final Thoughts

The myth that iPhones are virus-proof can lead to a false sense of security. While direct malware attacks on iPhones are less common, they are a real and growing threat. Phishing scams from emails and texts, insecure Wi-Fi networks, and rogue configuration profiles can all bypass this protection. 

To thwart malware from invading your iPhone, a layered security strategy is essential. Along with practising safe browsing habits, the best defense is a proactive one: keep your software updated, be skeptical of unsolicited links, and know the warning signs of an infection. In addition, using a dedicated security app such as McAfee Mobile Security provides value far beyond traditional antivirus solutions, offering features like identity monitoring to alert you if your credentials appear in a data breach, a VPN to encrypt your connection and Wi-Fi scanning to check for network threats. These added security features better protect your iPhone from malware and other digital threats.

By combining your habits with iPhone’s robust built-in protections and the advanced features of McAfee Mobile Security, you create a comprehensive shield for your digital life.