As much as we would like to believe that our iPhones are immune to viruses, that isn’t entirely true. Although it’s less likely to happen, iPhones can still be infected by viruses, just like any other electronic device. But don’t worry; you don’t have to be a tech-savvy person to get rid of viruses on your iPhone. In this article, we’ll be discussing how to get rid of viruses on iPhone.
What is a Virus, and How does it Infect an iPhone?
A virus is a malicious program that infects an electronic device, such as a computer or a smartphone. It can damage your device, steal your personal information, or take over your device’s functionality. In the case of an iPhone, a virus can infect it by downloading malicious apps, clicking on infected links, or connecting to an infected Wi-Fi network.
How to Tell if your iPhone has a Virus?
There are several signs that your iPhone might have a virus, such as:
- Your iPhone is slower than usual
- Your iPhone’s battery drains faster than normal
- Your iPhone crashes or freezes often
- Your iPhone’s apps crash or don’t open
- Your iPhone’s storage is full, although you haven’t downloaded many files
- You receive unknown pop-up ads or notifications
How to Get Rid of Viruses on iPhone?
Here are some steps to follow if you suspect that your iPhone has a virus:
Delete suspicious apps: If you suspect that a particular app is causing the virus, delete it immediately. You can do this by holding down the app icon until it starts to wiggle, then tap the “x” button in the upper left corner of the app icon.
Update your iOS: Updating your iOS to the latest version can help fix security issues and bugs. To do this, go to “Settings” > “General” > “Software Update” and follow the on-screen instructions.
Clear your browsing history and data: If you have been clicking on unknown links or visiting suspicious websites, clearing your browsing history and data can help get rid of the virus. To do this, go to “Settings” > “Safari” > “Clear History and Website Data.”
Reset your iPhone: If the virus persists after trying the above steps, resetting your iPhone can help. To do this, go to “Settings” > “General” > “Reset” > “Erase All Content and Settings.” This will delete all your data, so make sure to back up your important files before resetting your iPhone.
Use anti-virus software: Although it’s rare to find anti-virus software for iPhones, some apps claim to protect your iPhone from viruses. Make sure to research before downloading any anti-virus app, as some of them may be scams.
How to Prevent Viruses on iPhone?
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some steps you can take to prevent viruses on your iPhone:
- Download apps only from the App Store
- Do not click on unknown links or download files from unknown sources
- Do not connect to unknown Wi-Fi networks
- Use a strong password and two-factor authentication to protect your iPhone
Conclusion
Getting rid of a virus on an iPhone is not a difficult task if you know the right steps to take. The best way to prevent viruses from infecting your iPhone is to avoid downloading apps from untrusted sources, regularly update your device’s operating system, and use antivirus software. However, if your iPhone has been infected, you can follow the above-discussed steps to remove the virus.
FAQs:
Can iPhones get viruses?
Yes, iPhones can get viruses, but the chances are relatively low as compared to Android devices.
How do I know if my iPhone has a virus?
Your iPhone may behave abnormally, like running slower than usual or showing unwanted pop-up ads. Also, you may notice a sudden increase in data usage or unexpected charges on your bill.
Do I need to install antivirus software on my iPhone?
It’s not necessary to install antivirus software on your iPhone. But if you are using your iPhone to visit untrusted websites, you should use antivirus software to ensure the security of your device.
