keep your iphone virus free
Can my iPhone get a virus? We get this question all the time, and while iPhones are known for being more secure than other smartphones, no device is completely immune to malicious software (malware). With the majority of web traffic shifting to mobile over recent years, we have seen an increased amount of malware targeting mobile users. If you think your phone may have picked up a virus or other malware, use these tips to check your phone and keep it safe in the future.
You may be wondering, what’s the difference between a virus and malware? A virus is a specific type of malware that attaches itself to a legitimate program and replicates itself, spreading to other devices. Malware, on the other hand, is a broader term that includes all types of malicious software, including viruses, Trojan horses, worms, ransomware, and spyware. Simply put, all viruses are malware, but not all malware are viruses.
So how do you know if your phone has some type of malware?
Step 1: Check for Unusual Activity
The first thing you should do is check for any unusual activity on your iPhone. This may include pop-ups, slow performance, or unexpected charges on your phone bill. If you notice any of these signs, it's possible that your iPhone has been infected with a virus.
Step 2: Use Antivirus Software
A great way to check for malware on your iPhone is to use antivirus software. Luckily, there are several free antivirus apps available from the App Store that you can use to scan your iPhone. These apps will search all of your files and programs and see if any of them match malware on their database.
Step 3: Check for Unfamiliar Apps
Check the list of apps installed on your iPhone and look for any unfamiliar apps that you did not install yourself. These apps could be malware and should be removed immediately.
Step 4: Check for Suspicious Emails
If you have been receiving emails from unknown senders that contain suspicious links or attachments, it could be a sign that your iPhone has been infected with a virus. Never open any suspicious emails, texts, or links.
If you receive emails or texts that look real (like from your bank), but they are asking for your passwords or login info, never give them away. No one will ever email, call or text you asking for your private information.
When in doubt, always check with the actual business or person that you supposedly received the email or text from. Never call a number in the email. Always look up the number yourself to verify you arent calling the scammer.
Step 5: Contact Apple support
If you suspect your iPhone may be infected with a virus, and none of the above steps have helped, it's best to contact Apple support. They may be able to provide additional assistance or guide you through more advanced troubleshooting steps.
Conclusion
Hopefully these tips helped you learn a bit more about keeping your phone safe. Checking your phone for malware is an important step in protecting your personal information. By regularly updating your operating system and apps, using reputable antivirus software, and being cautious of suspicious emails and text messages, you can greatly reduce the risk of malware infection on your device.
Did our tips help? If so, let us know in the comments below!