How To Remove A Virus From An iPhone Or iPad

9 Steps to Remove iPhone Viruses

1. Restart your iPhone

Restarting your iPhone or iPad can permanently disable certain types of viruses and spyware, making it a simple but effective first step in cleaning your device.

As a bonus, a restart can also resolve minor software glitches you might be experiencing. Here’s how to do it:

1. Press and hold the side and volume buttons until the power off slider appears.
2. Swipe the slider that says slide to power off.
3. After turning off your device, wait 30 seconds to a minute before turning it back on. This allows the device to shut down fully.
4. Switch your device back on by pressing and holding the side button until the Apple logo appears.

Fig 1. Restarting an iPhone.

2. Update iOS

Keeping your iOS version up-to-date is crucial for security and performance. Apple regularly releases updates to fix bugs and security vulnerabilities.

These updates can help protect your device against the latest viruses and remove active threats from your device. Here’s how to update your iOS:

Before you start

Ensure your device is connected to a Wi-Fi network. Updates can be large and may use a lot of data.

It’s also a good idea to backup your device before updating it. You can do this through iCloud or by connecting your device to a computer and using Finder (Mac) or Apple Devices (Windows).

How to check for and install the latest iOS version

1. Open the Settings app and tap General.
2. Here, you’ll find the Software Update option. Tap on it to check for available updates.
3. If an update is available, you’ll see an option to Download and Install. Tap it. If your device asks for a passcode, enter it.
4. Once the update is installed, your device will restart. You might see a progress bar or the Apple logo during this process.

Fig 2. Updating iOS on an iPhone.

3. Remove suspicious apps

If you notice problems with your device after downloading a specific app or see an unfamiliar app on your phone, it could be the source of the issue. Deleting suspicious apps is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:

1. Go to your home screen and find the malicious apps you suspect are causing problems.
2. Touch and hold the app icon until a menu appears.
3. You’ll see an option to Remove App. Tap it.
4. A confirmation message will pop up, asking if you’re sure you want to delete the app. Confirm by tapping Delete App. This action will uninstall the app from your device.

Fig 3. Removing an unknown app from iPhone.

4. Clear iPhone website data

Clearing your website data can effectively remove viruses, especially those from online sources.

Here’s how to do it in Safari:

1. Open the Settings app, scroll down and tap Apps.
2. Tap Safari.
3. Scroll to the bottom and tap Advanced, then Website Data.
4. Tap Remove All Website Data.

Fig 4. Clearing Safari website data.

5. Revoke unrecognized configuration profiles

Some organizations (like your employer or school) use configuration profiles to set up devices with specific settings or install custom apps.

However, hackers have also been known to use configuration profiles as a way to infect an iPhone with malware. If you find a profile that you don’t recognize, it’s a good idea to remove it.

To uninstall a configuration profile on an iOS device, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app, then tap General.
2. Scroll down to find VPN & Device Management.
3. If you have profiles installed, look through the list and identify any you don’t recognize. Please note that if you use your device for work or school you may have a profile for that. Not all profiles are bad.
4. To remove a profile, tap on it to see its details, and then tap Remove Profile. You may need to enter your device passcode to authorize this action.
5. You’ll see a confirmation message after you tap Remove Profile. Tap Remove again to confirm that you want to delete the profile.

Fig 5. Uninstalling a configuration profile on iPhone.

6. Remove unrecognized custom keyboards

Malicious custom keyboards installed on your iPhone can act as keyloggers that record every keystroke you make, including passwords and personal information.

If a third-party keyboard is installed on your iPhone and you do not recognize it, it’s a good idea to remove it. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the Settings app and tap General.
2. Tap Keyboard, then Keyboards.
3. You’ll see a list of all keyboards installed, like your language and Emoji.
4. Look for any keyboards you don’t recognize.
5. Tap Edit in the top right of the Keyboards page
6. Tap the red minus (⊖) button next to the keyboard, then tap Delete.

Fig 6. Removing a malicious keyboard on iPhone.

7. Enable Lockdown Mode

Lockdown Mode is an optional, extreme security feature available on iPhones and iPads running iOS 16 or later.

This feature is designed to provide additional protection against sophisticated cyberattacks, particularly from highly advanced spyware like Pegasus and Predator.

Lockdown mode is designed for people who might be personally targeted by surveillance software via state-sponsored cyberattacks due to their professions or identities.

To enable Lockdown Mode, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Privacy & Security.
3. Scroll down and tap Lockdown Mode, then tap Turn On Lockdown Mode.​​

Fig 7. Enabling Lockdown Mode on iPhone.

8. Turn off Developer Mode

Developer Mode on iOS devices is used mainly by developers to test apps and features. However, it can also expose your device to additional security risks.

If you have never used your device for development but this feature is turned on then this could be a sign that your device has been tampered with. Here’s how to turn it off:

1. Open the Settings app and tap Privacy & Security.
2. Scroll down and look for an option that says Developer Mode.
3. If Developer Mode is on, tap it and toggle the switch to turn it off.

Fig 8. Disabling Developer Mode on iPhone.

9. Factory reset and restore from a backup

If your device is still experiencing issues after trying the previous solutions, a factory reset is your most effective option. This process will erase everything on your device and restore it to its original factory settings, removing any viruses in the process.

Before you start

Back up all your important data before proceeding. You have two options:

• iCloud backup: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup > Back Up Now.
• Computer backup: Connect your device to a computer and use Finder (Mac) or Apple Devices (PC).

If you have a recent backup from before the virus infection started, you can restore from that backup instead of setting up as new. Just make sure the backup predates your security issues—otherwise, you might restore the virus along with your data.

How to factory reset your iPhone

1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
2. Tap Erase All Content and Settings.
3. Enter your device’s passcode or Apple ID password if prompted.
4. Confirm that you want to erase everything.
5. Your device will start the reset process—this may take a while, so ensure your device has enough battery or is plugged into a charger.

Fig 9. Returning an iPhone to factory settings.

After the reset

Once your device restarts, you’ll see the setup screen. You can either:

• Set up as a new device (recommended if you want to ensure the virus is completely gone)
• Restore from your backup (only use a backup from before the infection started)

Spotting the Signs of iPhone Viruses

Now that you know how to remove a virus, it’s equally important to recognize when your iPhone or iPad might be infected.

For iPhone users, being able to identify the symptoms of a virus and understanding where these threats typically come from can help you act quickly and keep your device safe.

🚨 Unexpected pop-up ads

Seeing pop-ups or ads appear out of nowhere, especially when you’re not browsing the web, can be a sign of adware infection.

🔋 Unusual battery drain

If your device’s battery is draining faster than normal without any change in usage, it could indicate a virus running in the background.

📈 Increased data usage

A sudden spike in data usage that you can’t account for might suggest malware is transmitting data from your device.

💥 App crashes or unusual behavior

Apps crashing frequently or behaving oddly, like opening and closing on their own, can be symptoms of a virus.

🔥 Overheating

While it’s normal for devices to get slightly warm during use, excessive overheating without a clear reason could be caused by malicious software.

💸 Unexplained charges

Check your bill for services or apps you don’t remember purchasing, as some malware can make unauthorized transactions.

Common sources of phone viruses and other malware infections

• Malicious apps: Downloading an iPhone app from outside the official App Store increases the risk of installing a virus. Even within the App Store, be wary of apps with poor reviews or those from unknown developers.
• Cyberstalkers: Someone gets hold of your iPhone and installs a hidden spyware app, which allows them to monitor your communications and extract data from your device.
• Phishing attempts: Clicking on links in emails, messages, or malicious websites can lead to viruses. These links often appear as urgent requests or offers that seem too good to be true.
• Unsecured Wi-Fi networks: Using public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks can expose your device to risks, as hackers might intercept data or distribute malware.
• Jailbreaking: Jailbreaking iPhones removes many of their built-in security features, making them more vulnerable to viruses and malware infection.

Knowing these symptoms and sources can help you stay vigilant and identify a virus infection early. If you notice any of these signs, take steps to scan and remove potential threats from your device.

How to Protect Your iPhone or iPad from Viruses

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to viruses. By taking a few simple precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk of infection and keep your device secure from cyber threats.

Keep Your Device Updated

• Stay current with iOS updates Regularly updating your iOS device ensures you have the latest security patches. Apple frequently releases updates to fix vulnerabilities that viruses could exploit. Enable automatic updates in Settings under General > Software Update so your device stays up-to-date with minimal effort.

Smart App and Browsing Habits

• Download apps wisely Only download apps from the official App Store. Apple’s review process helps screen apps for security threats, reducing the risk of downloading malicious software. Before downloading any app, check user reviews and ratings for insights into the app’s performance and trustworthiness.
• Browse safely Be cautious with links in emails, text messages, and websites. Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown or suspicious sources. When using public Wi-Fi, avoid sensitive transactions or consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for added security.

Enable Apple’s Built-in Security Features

• Use biometric security Set up Face ID or Touch ID for a secure and convenient way to unlock your device and authenticate transactions. Combine this with a strong passcode that’s hard to guess—avoid simple sequences or easily-guessable numbers.
• Protect your Apple ID Turn on two-factor authentication for your Apple ID for an added layer of security. This helps protect your account from remote attacks and unauthorized access.
• Enable Find My iPhone Turn on Find My iPhone in iCloud settings. It can help you locate your device if it’s lost or stolen and allows you to erase data remotely if necessary.

Wrapping Up

Keeping your iPhone or iPad safe from viruses doesn’t have to be complicated. By recognizing the warning signs early and knowing how to respond, you can protect your personal information and get your device back to normal quickly.

The steps in this guide give you a clear path forward—from simple restarts to factory resets when needed. Most virus infections can be resolved without drastic measures, but it’s important to act as soon as you notice something’s wrong.

If you’re still unsure whether your device is infected or want extra peace of mind, running a scan with Certo AntiSpy can help you identify threats that aren’t always visible.

Remember, staying secure is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix. But with the right approach, you can keep your iPhone running smoothly and your data protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can iPhones actually get viruses?

Yes, while iPhones are generally more secure than other smartphones, they can still get infected with viruses and malware.

Sophisticated threats like spyware, adware, and malicious apps can find their way onto your device through phishing links, suspicious apps, or if your device is jailbroken. The key is knowing how to spot the warning signs and take action quickly.

How do I know if my iPhone has a virus?

Common signs include unexpected pop-up ads, unusual battery drain, increased data usage, apps crashing frequently, overheating, and unfamiliar apps appearing on your home screen.

You might also notice your device running slower than usual or receiving unexplained charges on your bill. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s worth running a security scan with an app like Certo AntiSpy.

Will a factory reset remove all viruses from my iPhone?

A factory reset can remove most viruses from your iPhone by erasing all data and apps, but it won’t always eliminate every threat.

Some sophisticated malware can hide in hard-to-reach areas of your device or target firmware—programs embedded deep in your device’s hardware.

While a factory reset is often effective and should be considered if other methods don’t work, it’s not a guaranteed solution for every type of infection.

That’s why it’s important to try other removal methods first and consider using specialized security tools that can detect threats a reset might miss.

Cover Image by Freepik