How to Keep Your Phone Clean of Viruses

Our smartphones hold everything-texts, photos, banking apps, social media accounts. With personal data packed into one device, protecting it from viruses and malware isn’t just important; it’s essential. (It’s also worth it to physically keep your phone clean. But that’s another topic entirely!)

The threat is very real: according to Kaspersky Security Network, over 10.1 million mobile malware and adware attacks were blocked in Q1 2024 alone, with adware accounting for nearly half of all detections. Over 389,000 malicious installation packages were identified in that same period-including more than 11,700 mobile banking Trojans. Even official app stores aren’t immune-Google rejected 2.28 million risky Android apps in 2023. But malicious copycat versions of popular games like Minecraft were still installed 35 million times before being found.

Let’s talk about the most important steps so you can keep your phone secure from online threats, including how to protect your device from viruses and malware. And if you’re ready to upgrade, we’ll show you how ecoATM makes it easy to turn your old phone into instant cash while ensuring your data stays protected and your device gets responsibly recycled.

Key Takeaways

• Update Regularly: Always install the latest iOS or Android updates to patch security vulnerabilities as soon as they’re available.
• Source Apps Wisely: Only download applications from official app stores like the Apple App Store or Google Play, and review permissions carefully before installing.
• Enable 2FA: Use Two-Factor Authentication to add an extra layer of security to your sensitive accounts.
• Practice Safe Connectivity: Avoid public Wi-Fi and turn off Bluetooth when not in use to prevent unauthorized access.
• Watch for Banking Trojans: With mobile banking Trojans on the rise, use your bank’s official app and enable transaction alerts to catch suspicious activity early.
• Backup Your Data: Maintain regular backups via iCloud, Google One, or your computer to protect your information from loss or attacks.

Can iPhones get viruses?

Yes. But it’s uncommon. Apple’s “sandboxing” and App Store review process block most malware, which makes iPhones more resistant to infection than Android devices. That said, iPhones are not immune. Infections usually happen when a phone is jailbroken, a user installs an untrusted configuration profile, taps a phishing link, or falls behind on iOS updates. Sophisticated threats like spyware have also been known to exploit zero-day vulnerabilities in iOS, which means even updated devices can occasionally be at risk.

The wider mobile threat landscape is worth keeping in mind. According to Kaspersky Security Network, over 10.1 million mobile malware and adware attacks were blocked in Q1 2024 alone, with adware making up nearly half of all detections. While most of these threats target Android users, the volume is a reminder that mobile devices as a category are increasingly interesting targets for cybercriminals.

The best defense for iPhone users remains simple: keep iOS updated, stay away from tapping unknown or suspicious links, never install apps outside of the official App Store, and be careful about granting permissions to apps you don’t trust. It’s also worth knowing what happens when iOS updates stop for your device, since older iPhones that no longer receive security patches face a higher risk.

How to keep your iPhone virus-free

Keep iOS updated

Apple releases software updates to help with security vulnerabilities and improve performance. Keep your iPhone updated with each new iOS release to get the latest security patches.

To update your iPhone, follow these steps:

1. Launch the “Settings” app on your phone.
2. Scroll down and tap “General.”
3. To install any available updates, follow the instructions for “Software Update”.

Download apps from trusted sources

Malicious apps are one of the most common ways viruses get onto smartphones. According to Kaspersky Security Network, over 389,000 malicious installation packages were detected in Q1 2024 alone-making it important to be selective about where and what you download. Follow these rules to protect your device and stay protected:

• Before installing an app, read user reviews and check ratings to gauge its reliability.
• Avoid downloading apps from unknown websites as these may contain malware.

Review app permissions

Think twice before granting app permissions-apps that request more access than they need can compromise your security.

To manage permissions:

1. Open up the “Settings” app on your iPhone.
2. Tap “Privacy & Security” for an overview of permission settings across various app categories.
3. Review each app’s permissions and deactivate any unnecessary access (particularly any that involve sensitive data like location, contacts or camera access).

Be cautious with links and emails

Phishing attempts through links and emails are among the techniques cybercriminals use to infect devices with viruses. You can protect yourself by following these best practices:

• Avoid clicking suspicious links or opening attachments from unknown sources.
• Before sharing personal data or clicking embedded links in emails, always verify their authenticity first.
• Install a reliable email security application that can identify and block potential threats.

Install reputable antivirus software

While iOS includes strong built-in security features, installing an antivirus app from the App Store gives an extra layer of protection-increasingly worthwhile given that adware alone accounts for nearly half of all detected mobile threats: 46% according to Kaspersky’s Q1 2024 data.

Research and choose an antivirus app with positive user reviews and quick updates, then enable real-time scanning and schedule regular device scans for standard protection.

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your email, social media, and banking accounts. Even if someone steals your password, they can’t access your account without a second verification step-usually a code sent to your phone or email, or your fingerprint. This is especially important given the sharp rise in mobile banking trojans.

Here are some general steps to enable 2FA for your accounts:

• Navigate to the security or privacy settings of each account.
• Turn on Two-Factor Authentication and follow prompts to set it up (this may involve receiving a one-time code to your phone or email).

Back up data regularly

Regular backups protect your iPhone data if you encounter a virus attack, lose your device, or experience hardware failure.

Follow these steps to ensure its safety through regular backups:

1. Connect your iPhone to a Wi-Fi network. Open the “Settings” app.
2. Tap your name at the top, then select “iCloud,” followed by “iCloud Backup.”

To use iCloud Backup:

1. Toggle on “Back Up This iPhone.”
2. Immediately initiate a backup by tapping “Back Up Now.”
3. Enable automatic backups so your device backs up whenever it is connected to Wi-Fi and charging.

To use Finder Backup (macOS) or a Windows PC:

• Connect your iPhone to a computer using a USB cable.
• On a Mac, open Finder; on a Windows PC, open the Apple Devices app or iTunes.
• Select your iPhone when it appears, then under “Backups,” choose “This Computer” or “Encrypt local backup” for added security.
• Click “Back Up Now” to start the backup process.

Use third-party backup apps

Explore third-party apps from the App Store for extra features and flexible backup options.

Secure Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections

Always handle wireless connectivity with caution to avoid virus attacks and data breaches:

• Wi-Fi: Avoid connecting to unsecure or public networks, which are often compromised.
• Bluetooth: Turn off Bluetooth when not in use to reduce the risk of unauthorized device access.

Protect your lock screen

Implement a strong password or biometric authentication to prevent unauthorized access to your device and its contents.

To set a protected passcode:

1. Go to “Settings.”
2. Select “Face ID & Passcode” (or “Touch ID & Passcode” depending on your iPhone model).
3. Follow prompts to set a strong passcode-opt for a custom alphanumeric code for the highest level of security.

Avoid jailbreaking risks

Jailbreaking removes Apple’s software restrictions and lets you install unapproved apps and modifications. However, this opens your device to security risks-only do it if you fully understand what you’re getting into. Before making any major changes to your device, it’s also worth reviewing why removing accounts and resetting your phone matters to keep your personal data safe.

Secure browsing and app usage

Use secure browsing practices

Practice	Action
HTTPS	Only visit reputable sites with a padlock icon in the address bar.
Public Networks	Avoid entering personal data on open or public Wi-Fi networks.
VPN Usage	Use a trusted VPN to encrypt your internet traffic, especially on public networks.

Stay up to date

Enable automatic app and OS updates, or check for updates regularly, to patch vulnerabilities and address security problems. Many malware attacks specifically target devices running outdated software.

Avoid sideloading apps

Installing apps from sources outside official app stores (sideloading) carries dangers. The threat is very real - Google rejected over 2.28 million risky Android apps in 2023 alone, and malicious copycat apps disguised as popular games like Minecraft were installed 35 million times on Google Play before being found. Third-party stores and unverified APK files dramatically increase your exposure to malware. Stick to official stores like the Google Play Store or Apple App Store for safer downloads.

Practice app hygiene

Review your installed apps periodically and remove those you no longer use or trust. According to Kaspersky Security Network, over 389,000 malicious installation packages were detected in Q1 2024 alone - including nearly 12,000 mobile banking Trojans. Be careful when granting permissions like access to your camera, microphone, or contacts, and only approve what is legitimately necessary for the app to work.

Use secure messaging apps

For sensitive communication, choose apps with end-to-end encryption. Signal remains the gold standard for privacy-focused messaging. WhatsApp also has end-to-end encryption, though it’s owned by Meta. Avoid assuming all messaging apps are equally protected - always check an app’s encryption and data-sharing policies before trusting it with sensitive conversations.

Enable Find My Device

Use the Find My Device feature on your phone - Find My on iPhone or Find My Device on Android - to track, lock, or remotely erase your device if it’s lost or stolen. Make sure the feature is enabled before you ever need it, and familiarize yourself with how to access it from another device or browser.

Protect sensitive files and documents

Encrypt sensitive files stored on your device, or use apps that create password- or biometric-protected encrypted vaults. Avoid storing unprotected copies of documents like passports, financial records, or login credentials in your standard photo gallery or notes app.

Avoid public Wi-Fi networks

Public Wi-Fi remains a common attack vector. Avoid transmitting sensitive data - like banking details, passwords, or shopping information - over open networks. If you have to use public Wi-Fi, connect through a reputable VPN to encrypt your traffic. Adware and network-based attacks accounted for a significant share of the 10.1 million mobile malware attacks blocked by Kaspersky in Q1 2024 alone. Protecting your data on mobile devices requires staying vigilant about the networks you use.

Regularly clear cache and temporary files

Clearing app caches and temporary files helps improve device performance and cuts back on the danger of sensitive information being stored longer than necessary.

Secure device selling with ecoATM

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ecoATM provides guides for factory resetting every device model, so you can confidently wipe your data before getting instant cash at one of our convenient kiosks. Plus, you’ll know your old device is getting a second life or being recycled responsibly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if my iPhone has a virus?

Watch for these warning signs:

• Battery drains much faster than usual.
• Phone feels hot, slows down, or apps crash often.
• Pop-up ads or Safari pages open on their own.
• Unknown apps or configuration profiles appear.
• Data or call charges spike without explanation.

If you see a few of these, follow the removal steps below and update iOS.

How do I remove a virus from my iPhone?

1. Delete any unfamiliar apps (press and hold the icon, then tap “Remove App”).
2. Clear Safari data: Settings > Apps > Safari > Clear History and Website Data.
3. Open Settings > General > VPN & Device Management and delete unknown profiles - see our guide on how to remove MDM profiles for more detail.
4. Update iOS: Settings > General > Software Update.
5. Restart the phone. If issues remain, back up important data and choose Erase All Content and Settings to factory-reset.

These steps reload clean software and remove most threats.

How do I run a security check on my iPhone?

iOS doesn’t have a traditional virus scanner. But you can audit security faster:

• Use Settings > Privacy & Security > Safety Check (iOS 16+) to review sharing and reset access.
• Check Settings > Battery and Settings > Cellular for apps that drain power or data unusually fast - adware alone accounts for roughly 36% of all mobile malware attacks, and can quietly run in the background.
• Review permissions under Settings > Privacy & Security and disable any you don’t recognize or no longer need.
• Turn on Automatic Updates and two-factor authentication for your Apple ID.

These built-in tools catch most problems without extra antivirus apps. While iPhones are more resistant to malware than Android devices - where over 389,000 malicious installation packages were detected in a single quarter of 2024 - no device is immune, which makes standard security checks a habit.