If your iPhone is performing strangely, it’s possible it might have a virus. Although it is exceedingly rare, iPhones can become infected with malware and viruses. However, this will only occur if you have ever clicked on a suspicious link or downloaded an app from a source other than the App Store.
Fortunately, Apple routinely fixes iPhone devices to reduce the chance of virus and malware attacks. But if you want to learn how to remove viruses on iPhone devices, we’ve got you covered in this guide. Bearing that in mind, let’s get started!
Basic Ways To Remove Virus on iPhone
Method #1: Restart the Device
Restarting your iPhone to remove viruses, malware, and other bugs can be effective, especially on older models. Doing this may result in the installation of pending updates that correct bugs or clear errant processes. To restart an iPhone,
- Hold down the power button of your iPhone until you see a slide to power off appear on your screen.
- After that, wait until your phone has completely shut down.
- Then, press the power button to restart your iPhone.
Method #2: Update your iPhone
Ignoring iPhone updates is a critical cybersecurity mistake most users make. Malware attacks on iPhones can be fairly complex, particularly if your device is vulnerable to a zero-day bug. The easiest way to combat such attacks is to download updates regularly. That’s why Apple releases emergency update patches to protect users. Follow the steps below to update your iPhone:
- Launch the Settings app
- Next, search for Software Update in the General tab.
- Then, select Software Update.
- Thereafter, tap Download and Install to take advantage of the latest iPhone patch.
- Once done, proceed by restarting your iPhone.
Method #3: Clear iPhone Cache and History
Clearing your cache and history on your iPhone may not delete viruses and malware, but it can optimize performance. Furthermore, it may prevent you from downloading malware again if you use your history to access websites. Here are the steps to follow:
- Launch the Settings app.
- Next, choose Safari from the list of options.
- Scroll down and tap on Clear History and Website Data.
- After that, tap on clear History and Data to confirm your action to erase your cache and browsing history.
Method #4: Delete Suspicious Apps
Unfamiliar apps on your iPhone could be malicious, so removing them might help get rid of an iPhone virus. If you ever find a suspicious app, here’s how to delete it:
- Long-press the app icon on your screen.
- Wait until Remove App appears
- Tap on Remove and confirm.
- Repeat the process until all suspicious apps are gone.
Method #5: Factory Reset your iPhone
Factory resetting is the most drastic way of removing viruses from iPhone devices. A factory reset will not only remove viruses from your iPhone, but it will also remove everything else. We recommend that you try all other options before restoring your device to factory settings.
- Launch the Settings app.
- Next, select General from the drop-down menu.
- Then, tap on Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- After that, tap on Erase All Content and Settings
- Then, select Erase Now.
- Finally, allow your device to restart.
Final Words
There you have it on how to remove viruses from the iPhone devices. In essence, prevention is always better than cure, but if your iPhone ever gets infected with a virus, you have to remove it quickly before it does any damage to your system. Hopefully, with the methods above, you should be able to resolve this issue on your iPhone device.
FQAs
How do you check your iPhone if it has a virus?
Depending on the type of virus, it might be hard to detect. However, some things can help you determine if your device is under a virus attack. Safari pop-ups, crashing apps, battery drains, phone hitting up. Also, you can check your device for unusual apps and uninstall them.
Signs your Android phone may have a virus or other malware
Android security has improved, and we hardly hear about viruses on Android phones. It’s mostly malware and adware, which is a result of downloading unknown apps. Luckily, Google now releases a monthly security patch update that resolves these issues. Meanwhile, listed below are signs your phone might be invested with a virus
- Battery drain
- Pop-up ads
- High data usage
- Higher phone bills
- App launch takes time
- Phone too slow
Does Apple have a virus scan?
iOS is a closed system, which makes it hard for viruses to penetrate. Also, Apple has sophisticated security protections that keep Apple iPhones protected from viruses and malware.
Does iOS protect you from viruses?
Yes, the iPhone can get viruses, but mostly when you install apps from unofficial sources. However, Apple has some sophisticated security measures to protect your device from security threats. Hence, it’s hard for malware or viruses to get into your Apple phone, but there’s a chance. Always update your iOS version to the latest one.