Despite Apple's robust security measures, iPhones aren't completely immune to malware threats. While traditional viruses are rare on iOS devices, sophisticated malware, spyware, and malicious apps can still find their way onto your iPhone. This comprehensive guide will show you how to detect, remove, and prevent malware on your iPhone in 2025.

Can iPhones really get malware?

Many iPhone users believe their devices are completely safe from malware, but this isn't entirely accurate. While iOS has strong built-in security features like app sandboxing and code signing, determined cybercriminals have developed sophisticated methods to bypass these protections.

According to recent security reports, iPhone malware incidents have increased by 23% in 2025, with spyware and adware being the most common threats. Zero-click exploits, which can infect devices without any user interaction, have become particularly concerning for high-value targets.

Types of malware targeting iPhones

Spyware represents the most serious threat to iPhone users, capable of stealing personal data, messages, and even recording conversations without detection. Adware bombards users with unwanted advertisements and can redirect browser traffic to malicious websites.

Malicious configuration profiles can be installed through phishing attacks, giving attackers extensive control over device settings. Fake apps that mimic legitimate applications can steal credentials and financial information.

How to check if your iPhone has malware

Battery drain and overheating

One of the first indicators of malware infection is unusual battery behavior. If your iPhone's battery depletes rapidly during normal use or the device becomes hot without intensive applications running, malware could be operating in the background.

Check your battery usage by navigating to Settings > Battery > Battery Usage by App. Look for unfamiliar applications consuming excessive power or legitimate apps showing unusually high usage.

Unexpected data consumption

Malware often transmits stolen data to remote servers, causing spikes in cellular and Wi-Fi usage. Monitor your data consumption through Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Usage and investigate any unusual increases.

Applications you rarely use shouldn't consume significant data. If you notice unfamiliar apps or unexpected usage patterns, investigate further.

Strange pop-ups and advertisements

Legitimate iPhone apps shouldn't display aggressive pop-up advertisements outside of their designated ad spaces. If you're seeing unexpected pop-ups, especially those claiming your device is infected or offering fake security solutions, your iPhone may be compromised.

These malicious advertisements often attempt to trick users into downloading additional malware or providing personal information to scammers.

Apps crashing or behaving erratically

Malware can interfere with normal app functionality, causing frequent crashes or unusual behavior. If previously stable applications begin malfunctioning consistently, investigate for potential malware interference.

Pay particular attention to system apps like Safari, Mail, or Messages exhibiting strange behavior, as these are common malware targets.

Unknown apps appearing

New applications appearing on your home screen without your knowledge indicate a serious security breach. While iOS generally prevents unauthorized app installation, sophisticated attacks can sometimes bypass these protections.

Regularly review your installed applications and remove any you don't recognize or remember installing.

Step-by-step malware detection process on your iPhone

Reviewing installed applications

Begin your malware scan by thoroughly examining all installed applications. Navigate to Settings > General > iPhone Storage to view a complete list of installed apps sorted by storage usage.

Look for unfamiliar applications, especially those with vague names or descriptions. Research any suspicious apps online before deciding whether to keep them.

Checking app permissions

Malware often requests excessive permissions to access sensitive data and device functions. Review app permissions by going to Settings > Privacy & Security and examining each category.

Location Services should only be enabled for apps that legitimately need location data. Camera and Microphone access should be limited to apps with clear functionality requirements.

Remove permissions from any apps that don't clearly need them for their intended purpose.

Examining configuration profiles

Malicious configuration profiles can give attackers significant control over your device. Check for unauthorized profiles by navigating to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management.

Remove any profiles you don't recognize or remember installing. Be especially cautious of profiles claiming to provide free services or enhanced functionality.

Monitoring network activity

Suspicious network activity can indicate malware communication with remote servers. Check your Wi-Fi settings by going to Settings > Wi-Fi and tapping the information icon next to your connected network.

Look for unusual DNS settings or proxy configurations that you didn't set up. Malware sometimes modifies these settings to intercept or redirect your internet traffic.

How to protect your iPhone from viruses and Malware

Immediate response actions

If you suspect malware infection, immediately disconnect from Wi-Fi and disable cellular data to prevent further data theft or communication with malicious servers.

Avoid entering passwords or accessing sensitive accounts until you've completed the removal process.

Removing suspicious apps

Delete any unfamiliar or suspicious applications immediately. Press and hold the app icon, then select Remove App from the context menu.

For apps that won't delete normally, check if they're protected by configuration profiles or restrictions that need to be removed first.

Clearing browser data

Malware often operates through browser vulnerabilities or malicious scripts. Clear all Safari data by going to Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data.

This removes potentially malicious cookies, cached data, and saved website information that could harbor threats.

Using security tools

Consider using reputable security apps that provide additional protection against malware and phishing attempts. Astrill VPN offers comprehensive protection by encrypting your internet connection and blocking malicious websites.

When it comes to iPhone security, pairing your device’s built-in safeguards with right privacy tools adds a crucial extra layer of protection. It is important to hide your real IP address, blocks malicious websites, and shields personal information in order to protect from phishing or identity theft attempts.

A VPN (or Tor if you want) is particularly important when using public Wi-Fi networks, where malware distribution and man-in-the-middle attacks are more common.

Updating iOS immediately

Apple regularly releases security updates to patch vulnerabilities exploited by malware. Install any available updates by going to Settings > General > Software Update.

Enable automatic updates to ensure your device receives future security patches promptly.

Factory reset (if necessary)

For severe infections that resist other removal methods, a factory reset may be necessary. Back up important data first, then navigate to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.

Set up your device as new rather than restoring from a backup that might contain malware.

Preventing future malware infections

Safe browsing practices

Avoid clicking suspicious links in messages, emails, or social media posts. Be particularly cautious of links promising free services, prizes, or urgent security warnings.

Only download apps from the official App Store, and read reviews before installing new applications.

Keeping iOS updated

Enable automatic updates to ensure your device receives security patches as soon as they're available. Go to Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates and enable all options.

Regular security audits

Perform monthly reviews of your installed apps, permissions, and device settings. Remove unused applications and revoke unnecessary permissions to reduce your attack surface.

Monitor your accounts for unusual activity and change passwords if you suspect compromise.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need antivirus software for my iPhone?

While traditional antivirus software isn't necessary for most iPhone users, security apps providing web protection, VPN services, and privacy monitoring can offer valuable additional protection.

Can malware survive iOS updates?

Most malware is removed by iOS updates, but sophisticated threats may persist. Monitor your device carefully after updates and consider a factory reset if problems continue.

Is jailbreaking my iPhone safe?

Jailbreaking significantly increases malware risk by disabling Apple's security protections. It's not recommended for users concerned about security.

How often should I check for malware?

Perform comprehensive security checks monthly, but investigate immediately if you notice any suspicious symptoms.

Can I get malware from text messages?

While rare, malware can be distributed through malicious links in text messages. Never click suspicious links, especially those from unknown senders.

Protecting your iPhone from malware requires vigilance and proactive security measures. By following these detection and prevention strategies, along with using tools like Astrill VPN for additional protection, you can keep your device secure against evolving threats in 2025.