){kind=logo}
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
){kind=logo}
)
){kind=logo}
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
iPhone Antivirus
Apple would have you believe that iPhones are not only stylish but are also totally safe and secure right out of the box. While this might have been true when iPhones first came out and while iOS was relatively new to hackers, this isn’t the case today. iOS users can no longer rely on Apple's built-in protections alone. It’s time to consider downloading an additional antivirus app to keep your iPhone and iPad safe.
How Safe Are iOS Devices?
Apple has invested a lot in making its hardware secure. Unique hardware architecture, strict installation protocols, and advanced data encryption are just some of the features of iOS devices that make them inherently safer than other options.
A downside of Apple’s approach to security is that many iPhone and iPad users feeling unnecessarily restricted. This leads to users opting to jailbreak their devices. A move that grants the freedom to install applications from outside of the Apple store at the cost of decreased security.
The Xsser Trojan is a well-known example of iOS malware that hides in third-party apps. Originating from China, once Xsser makes its way into a device deleting it is impossible. The trojan constantly runs in the background, stealing data and sending back to its creators.
Of course, it's not just apps that present a danger. There’s the ever-present threat that iOS devices will be lost or stolen. Malware can be injected into them via USB or fraudulent websites. And unprotected Wi-Fi networks can be used to intercept data via man-in-the-middle attacks.
As should be clear, even iOS devices can do with added security beyond trust in Apple.
What Protections Are Needed For iOS Mobile Devices?
Gaining improved security for your iOS device doesn’t require technical skill or downloading numerous apps. The same companies that have spent decades developing antivirus security software for computers have invested in making easy to use apps for iPhones and iPads.
A good antivirus app will not only help protect you from malicious activity coming from other apps but will go above and beyond to protect your phone from all danger. The best not only watch out for malicious activity but also intrusive activity like spam mail and unwanted calls.
Other features you’d want to consider in an antivirus app include:
Privacy Advisor - It's not always clear just how much access to your personal data you’re giving to apps you install. This feature inspects apps before you install them to help make sure you know exactly what you’re agreeing to.
Internet and Email Security - Since not every threat to your devices comes from apps, look for an antivirus that will keep you safe while performing common tasks online.
Parental Controls - Parents should look out for antivirus apps that include controls to keep their children safe online and restrict what they have access to.
Free Vs Paid Antivirus Apps
The best things in life may be free, but the same can’t be said for antivirus apps.
Free apps tend to only offer the most basic features of antivirus, protection from malware. Even if you think that’s all you need, free apps are also less frequently updated. Constant updates are important for digital security because new viruses are always being developed, and new hardware security flaws discovered.
Among paid apps, it’s also not necessarily the case that paying more means you have better protection. More expensive apps might have many features included in the price, but might not need some features (like parental controls). In that case, you’d want to consider an antivirus that lets you add features a la carte. Check out some of our expert reviews of iOS antivirus apps if you’re having trouble deciding on the best one for you.