Although the iPhone has robust security features, it’s not completely immune to threats. They are generally more secure against viruses and malware than Android devices, but no device is completely invincible.
This point was reinforced by a strange experience that was brought to our attention when “Pam” from Mesa, Arizona, wrote to us: Would you like to make my phone safe? ”
Pam, we would be happy to investigate why your iPhone is displaying a strange message suggesting there are 14 different viruses. There are various reasons why these types of messages appear, but there are workarounds to make your phone safe again.
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Woman shocked by virus alert on mobile phone (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
Why am I receiving a virus or malware alert?
iPhone’s closed-code design makes it less vulnerable to viruses and malware. This means Apple doesn’t share all the code information, making it harder for hackers to exploit vulnerabilities and take over your apps or iPhone. Please note that Apple will never send you a pop-up, text, or email warning that your device has a virus.
A warning appears on your phone’s home screen (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
How to protect your iPhone and iPad from malware
Beware of fake virus alerts on iPhone
Here are some reasons why your iPhone might be showing you notifications about viruses that may or may not actually be infected.
1) Pop-up ads: Your iPhone may not actually be infected with a virus or malware. Instead, your mobile browser may pop up an ad that indicates your iPhone is infected with a virus or malware. These can deceive you in several ways.
Clicking on this ad may download a virus or malware. You will be redirected to another website and asked for payment and other personal information so you can pay to have the virus or malware removed.
2) Fake apps: Some scammers use fake apps to display fake warnings about viruses and malware and scare people into downloading the app or purchasing services to get rid of the fake problem. is being created.
3) Phishing scam: This warning about a virus could be a fraudulent email or text message that claims to have a virus or malware that needs to be removed from your device. Do not click on links or call phone numbers. You may be transferred to an actual scammer. Scammers may try to push you into purchasing services, provide personal or financial information, or give you access to your iPhone.
Man scrolling on iPhone (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
New cyberattack targets iPhone and Apple ID: Here’s how to stay safe
How can I protect my iPhone?
It’s more difficult to break into an iPhone, but it’s not impossible. In fact, some hackers monitor and launch attacks on specific vulnerabilities in iOS. If you see such warnings, we recommend that you ignore them and do not click any links or download the recommended software. Below are some important steps you can take to protect your iPhone.
1) Keep your iPhone up to date: Apple sometimes releases new iOS updates to address known vulnerabilities. If possible, it’s best to update iOS to protect your iPhone from known vulnerabilities.
2) Install and run strong antivirus software: Actively running antivirus software on all your devices helps keep them safe, including your iPhone. On iPhone, strong antivirus software prevents you from clicking malicious links that can install malware on your device and extract personal information from your device. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These may be phishing attacks aimed at stealing personal information.
The best way to protect yourself from malicious links that can install malware and access your personal information is to install antivirus software on all your devices. This protection also warns you about phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Check out my picks for the best antivirus protection products of 2024 for your Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.
3) Download apps only from the App Store: Make sure to download apps from the official Apple App Store. App Store apps are security vetted by Apple, reducing the risk of malicious software being downloaded.
4) Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Adding a layer of security to your Apple ID helps protect your personal information. With 2FA, even if someone gets your password, they won’t be able to access your account without a second factor.
5) Use strong passwords: Make sure your passwords are strong and unique across different accounts. Consider using a password manager to manage your passwords.
6) Monitor app permissions: Regularly review the permissions granted to apps and revoke any that you think are unnecessary. This prevents apps from accessing more information than necessary.
Avoid iPhone privacy disaster with these 10 smart tips
Cart important points
While most iPhone users are relieved to know that iOS keeps most common viruses and malware at bay, there are still some who try to circumvent closed code or blackmail people into putting their phone or data at risk. You are more susceptible to scammers trying to trick you into making the wrong choices you expose yourself to. Apple never sends out warnings about viruses or malware on the iPhone, so this should be your first clue of a scam. Even though it seems official, iPhone users don’t receive any virus or malware warnings from Apple. If you have a good antivirus program installed, it will be the only program that will notify you that there is a problem with your iPhone. Understanding these scams will go a long way in keeping you calm and your phone safe.
Have you ever received anything like an official warning from Apple about a virus on your iPhone? Have you ever received a pop-up or other warning trying to convince you to buy a service or redirect you to a random website? What steps have you taken to determine if it is legal? Email us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.
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