Can iPhones Get Hacked? Yes, and Here’s What To Do About It

Yes, iPhones can get hacked, even with Apple's built-in security protections. Hackers may target iOS vulnerabilities, trick you into revealing passwords through phishing, or gain access to your Apple Account. More sophisticated attacks, including spyware such as Pegasus, can also compromise iPhones, although these are typically highly targeted.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Keeping iOS updated, securing your Apple Account, and recognizing suspicious links are especially important. iPhone security apps can also help block malicious websites and warn about certain threats, although they can't scan the entire device for malware like traditional desktop antivirus programs.

Keep reading to learn how iPhones get hacked, the warning signs to look for, and what to do if you suspect your iPhone has been compromised.

Is it even possible to hack an iPhone?

Even though Apple builds its products with security in mind, it is still possible to hack an iPhone. Some of Apple's key safety measures include:

• Hardware-based encryption: Apple's hardware-backed security features help protect encryption keys and data stored on your device. However, encryption alone can't prevent every type of compromise.
• App Store control: Apple's app review process helps reduce the risk of malicious apps, although it doesn't guarantee that every approved app is safe.
• Regular patches and updates: Apple releases iOS updates to address security vulnerabilities, including flaws that may already have been exploited. Apple sometimes delays publicly disclosing technical details until fixes are available to reduce the risk of further attacks.

Unfortunately, even the most advanced systems have vulnerabilities, and nothing is unhackable. For example, an iOS flaw affecting versions before 16.6 allowed attackers to potentially execute malicious code on vulnerable devices. Apple addressed the vulnerability in a security update.

Apple's commitment to security has also given rise to many dangerous iPhone myths. Learn more about them below.

The most common iPhone security myths

Here are the most popular myths about iPhone security:

• iPhones are resilient to malware. iPhones have strong protections against malware, but they're not immune. Sophisticated spyware such as Pegasus has been used to compromise vulnerable iPhones, including devices that weren't jailbroken.
• Hackers can't target iPhones. In 2022, Apple disclosed a security flaw that could allow attackers to execute code with elevated privileges on affected devices. Apple released a fix, but this wasn't an isolated incident.
• iOS apps are 100% safe. Despite Apple's review process, malicious or deceptive apps have occasionally appeared in the App Store.
• iPhones are only vulnerable if jailbroken. Jailbroken iPhones are more susceptible because jailbreaking removes some of Apple's built-in security restrictions. However, non-jailbroken iPhones can still be targeted through vulnerabilities, phishing, and account compromises.

How can iPhones get hacked?

iPhones can be compromised through software vulnerabilities, phishing, unsafe downloads, or stolen account credentials. Here are seven scenarios you need to be aware of:

1. You click a malicious link. Phishing links may lead to fake login pages designed to steal your passwords or other personal information. In some cases, attackers can also exploit software vulnerabilities through malicious websites, although simply clicking a link doesn't automatically give someone access to your iPhone. Hackers can send malicious links under the guise of the DMV, USPS, and other legitimate organizations.
2. You download infected or malicious apps. This scenario is more common on jailbroken Apple devices or when installing software from untrusted sources. Malicious or deceptive apps may collect sensitive information or abuse permissions.
3. You use weak passwords. Weak or reused passwords can make your online accounts easier to compromise, especially if your credentials appear in a data breach. Create strong passwords and avoid using info hackers can easily find online (e.g., your birth date and important names). We also recommend using a secure password manager instead of writing down passwords.
4. Hackers target you. Sometimes hackers discover vulnerabilities in specific iOS versions. They'll then target iPhones with that OS version until Apple issues a fix.
5. You jailbreak the iPhone and sideload apps. Jailbreaking your phone removes security restrictions and increases the risks associated with installing untrusted apps. Installing apps from trusted sources and reviewing their permissions can help reduce your exposure.
6. You fall victim to a zero-day exploit. Sometimes, hackers discover a flaw before Apple has released a fix. These are known as zero-day vulnerabilities and can affect existing iOS versions, not just newly released updates. The 2022 incident was an example of a zero-day exploit. Unfortunately, there's no way for users to predict every vulnerability.
7. You use unsecured Wi-Fi. Using public Wi-Fi networks can expose you to risks such as fake hotspots and attempts to intercept unencrypted traffic. However, HTTPS encryption generally protects the contents of your connections, so someone operating the network can't automatically see everything you do or steal your information simply because you connected.

6 critical signs that your iPhone has been hacked

Some unusual behavior can indicate a possible compromise, but many warning signs also have harmless explanations. Look for patterns and unexpected account activity rather than relying on any single symptom:

1. Your battery drains faster. Unusual battery drain or overheating can sometimes accompany malicious activity, but aging batteries, background apps, and software updates are much more common explanations.
2. You've been locked out of your Apple ID. An unexpected password change, unfamiliar sign-in notification, or loss of access to your Apple Account could indicate an account takeover. This doesn't necessarily mean someone has hacked the iPhone itself.
3. Unfamiliar apps on your home screen. Apps you don't remember installing are worth investigating, especially if they request unusual permissions. However, their presence alone doesn't confirm a hack.
4. Your contacts receive strange messages from you. Unexpected messages or phishing links sent from your accounts may indicate that an account has been compromised.
5. You notice a dip in device performance. Unexpected slowdowns can sometimes accompany unwanted background activity, but storage limitations, aging hardware, and software problems are more common causes.
6. Your data usage is spiking. Unexplained data usage may be worth investigating, particularly if an unfamiliar app is responsible. Check your cellular data settings before assuming someone has accessed your device.

We also recommend monitoring your Apple Account for unfamiliar devices or security notifications and reviewing any unexpected financial activity. Staying vigilant can help you prevent identity theft and data loss.

How to protect your iPhone from hackers

You can proactively protect your iPhone from hackers in a number of ways. Here are the essential ones:

• Install the latest software updates. New iOS versions are released with security upgrades and patches for known issues. Enable automatic updates when possible.
• Set up multi-factor authentication. At a minimum, enable two-factor authentication for your Apple Account and other important accounts.
• Use a virtual private network (VPN). VPNs like Surfshark can encrypt your internet traffic between your device and the VPN server, providing additional privacy on unfamiliar networks. However, they won't prevent phishing, account takeovers, or malware. Check out our list of the best VPNs for iPhone.
• Update your auto-lock and passcode. Make sure your iPhone auto-locks and uses a strong passcode. Change your passcode if you suspect someone knows it. You can also enable Stolen Device Protection in your iPhone's Face ID & Passcode or Touch ID & Passcode settings to add safeguards for sensitive account changes.
• Don't jailbreak your phone. Jailbreaking removes some of Apple's built-in security protections. Avoid installing apps from untrusted sources, and review app permissions before granting access to sensitive information.
• Enable Find My iPhone. Find My can help you locate a missing device, mark it as lost, or erase it remotely. It won't prevent every theft or hack, but it can help protect your information if your phone goes missing.
• Ignore, delete, or report suspicious emails, messages, phone calls, or calendar invites. Unexpected requests for passwords, verification codes, or personal information may be phishing attempts.
• Consider the Erase Data option. This setting erases your iPhone after 10 consecutive failed passcode attempts. It can help protect information on a stolen device, but it also creates a risk of data loss, so make sure you have a reliable backup before enabling it.
• Turn off Bluetooth when you're not using it. This can reduce unnecessary wireless exposure, although keeping Bluetooth enabled doesn't automatically allow nearby devices to access your iPhone. Keep iOS updated to protect against known Bluetooth vulnerabilities.

What to do if your iPhone is hacked

If you suspect your iPhone has been hacked, act promptly, but first consider whether the problem involves your device or an online account. An unfamiliar Apple Account sign-in, for example, doesn't necessarily mean someone has gained control of your iPhone. The following steps can help you investigate and secure your information.

1. Run a malware scan

Unlike antivirus software on Windows or Android, third-party iPhone security apps generally can't scan the entire iOS system for malware. Apple's restrictions limit their access to other apps and system files. However, security apps can help identify certain threats, such as malicious websites, phishing attempts, and unsafe connections.

We recommend Norton Mobile Security as one of the options in our best antivirus for iPhones roundup, particularly for its web protection and other mobile security features.

Norton Mobile Security for iOS offers features designed to help protect against malicious websites, scams, and certain network threats. It is available separately and may also be included with eligible Norton 360 plans. However, it can't perform a full-system malware scan or guarantee the detection of sophisticated iPhone spyware.

2. Delete the apps you don't remember installing

If you find unfamiliar or suspicious apps, investigate them before removing them. Removing malware from your iPhone may involve deleting an unwanted app, although this won't resolve every type of security compromise.

Be sure to actually delete suspicious apps — not just remove them from your home screen — using the following steps:

1. On your home screen, press and hold the icon of the unfamiliar app.
2. Select Remove App, then Delete App, and confirm the deletion.

3. Remove unknown devices

If someone has gained access to your Apple Account, they may have signed in on a device you don't recognize. You can remove unauthorized access to your phone or accounts by reviewing the devices associated with your Apple Account.

Here's how to do it:

1. From your iPhone's home screen, navigate to Settings.
2. Tap your name at the top.
3. Scroll down to view the devices signed in to your Apple Account.
4. Select any device you don't recognize.
5. Tap Remove from Account.

Only remove devices you've confirmed are unfamiliar. If you suspect your Apple Account was compromised, change its password and review your trusted phone numbers and other account security information. Removing an unfamiliar device may interrupt its access, but securing the account is also important.

4. Remove suspicious configuration profiles

Configuration profiles can manage certain iPhone settings, including network connections and device restrictions. Some are legitimately installed by employers or schools, but an unfamiliar profile may warrant investigation.

You can review them in three simple steps:

1. From your iPhone's home screen, navigate to Settings.
2. Go to General.
3. Tap VPN & Device Management. If you don't see any installed profiles, there may be none to review.
4. Select a suspicious profile and, if available, tap Remove Profile. Enter your passcode and confirm the removal when prompted.

If your iPhone belongs to your employer or school, check with the administrator before removing a management profile.

5. Freeze your credit

If you suspect that an attacker accessed sensitive personal information, such as your Social Security number, consider freezing your credit. A compromised iPhone doesn't automatically mean your identity has been stolen, but a freeze can help prevent someone from opening new credit accounts in your name.

A credit freeze restricts access to your credit reports, making it harder for identity thieves to open new credit accounts. It doesn't prevent every type of fraud or affect existing accounts.

You can freeze your credit at Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion for free. Contact them through their websites or by phone to enact a freeze.

6. Cancel linked credit cards

If you suspect someone accessed your payment information or notice unauthorized charges, contact your card issuer immediately. You may need to lock or replace an affected card, dispute fraudulent transactions, or take additional steps recommended by your financial institution.

A compromised Apple Account doesn't automatically expose your complete credit card details, so canceling every card linked to your account usually isn't necessary without evidence of financial compromise. Review your transactions and follow your card issuer's guidance.

7. Check your app permissions

Apps with access to sensitive information, such as your photos, contacts, microphone, or location, may pose privacy risks if they're malicious or compromised. Reviewing permissions can help you identify apps with access they don't need.

You'll have to give some apps essential permissions. However, we recommend limiting access to what each app needs to function. A weather app, for example, generally doesn't need access to your photos or microphone.

Use the following steps to run an app permission audit:

1. From your iPhone's home screen, navigate to Settings.
2. Select Privacy & Security.
3. Choose a category, such as Contacts, Bluetooth, Photos, or Microphone, to see which apps have requested access.
4. Turn off permissions that aren't necessary. Depending on the category, you may see a toggle or more detailed access options.

You can also use Apple's Safety Check feature, available under Settings and Privacy & Security on supported iPhones, to review information sharing and access associated with people and apps.

8. Clear your cache and browser history

Clearing your browser history and website data can remove stored browsing information, cookies, and certain website settings. However, clearing your cache isn't a reliable way to remove malware or stop someone who has compromised your iPhone or Apple Account.

If you visited a suspicious website, you can clear its stored data as a precaution. We have a guide on how to clear cookies on any browser, but here's how to clear browsing data in Chrome on an iPhone:

1. Open Chrome and tap the More menu, represented by three dots.
2. Select Delete Browsing Data.
3. Choose a time range, such as All Time.
4. Select the types of data you want to remove, such as browsing history, cookies, or cached images and files.
5. Tap Delete Browsing Data and confirm if prompted.

9. Factory reset your iPhone

You should perform a factory reset on your iPhone only as a last resort, particularly if you have evidence of a device-level compromise that other steps haven't resolved. This action erases your personal data and settings, so back up important information before proceeding.

A factory reset can remove many unwanted apps and configurations, but it doesn't automatically install the latest iOS version or resolve a compromised Apple Account. Update iOS separately, and be cautious about restoring a backup that may reintroduce unwanted settings or apps.

Follow these steps to factory reset your iPhone:

1. From your iPhone home screen, go to Settings.
2. Select General and then Transfer or Reset iPhone.
3. Tap Erase All Content and Settings.
4. Review the information about what will be erased, then tap Continue. Back up important data beforehand if you haven't already.
5. Enter your device passcode or Apple Account password if prompted.
6. Follow the remaining prompts to confirm the erase. You may also be asked whether to keep or erase your eSIM.

10. Report the hack to Apple

If you suspect your Apple Account has been compromised, contact Apple Support for help securing your account and reviewing your recovery options. You can also visit an Apple Store for assistance with your device.

If you believe you've been targeted by sophisticated spyware, consider seeking specialized security assistance before resetting the device, since a reset could remove evidence useful for investigating the attack.

Bottom Line

Yes, iPhones can get hacked, but not every suspicious message, battery problem, or unexpected notification means someone has compromised your device. Apple's security features make many attacks more difficult, but phishing, stolen account credentials, malicious apps, and unpatched vulnerabilities can still put your information at risk.

The most effective protections include keeping iOS updated, using a strong passcode, enabling two-factor authentication for your Apple Account, and avoiding suspicious links and downloads. If you think you've already been hacked, review your account activity, remove unfamiliar devices, and investigate suspicious apps or configuration profiles. For more advanced threats, seek help from Apple Support or a qualified security professional.

iPhone security apps can provide useful features such as web protection and scam detection, but they can't perform the same full-device malware scans as desktop antivirus software. You can compare these protections in our best antivirus software roundup.

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