An iPhone can have security problems, but there is no built-in button that performs a traditional full-device antivirus scan. iOS isolates apps from one another, so third-party security apps also cannot scan the entire operating system the way desktop antivirus software can. The useful approach is to look for account compromise, suspicious configuration changes, unwanted apps, deceptive browser messages, and unusual device behavior.
Check an iPhone for signs of a security problem
- Install the latest available iOS update from Settings > General > Software Update.
- Review the apps on the iPhone and remove anything you do not recognize or no longer trust.
- Open Settings > General > VPN & Device Management and investigate unfamiliar configuration profiles or device-management entries, if that menu contains any.
- Review your Apple Account devices and security information for devices, sign-ins, or changes you do not recognize.
- If Safari is showing persistent scam alerts or redirects, close the page and clear Safari history and website data rather than tapping the warning.
- If you believe another person may have access to your information or location sharing, review Settings > Privacy & Security > Safety Check on supported iOS versions.
A webpage claiming that it has scanned your iPhone and found several viruses is not proof that the phone is infected. Websites cannot perform a legitimate system-wide iPhone malware scan from a browser page. Avoid installing software or calling a phone number merely because a pop-up tells you to.
What to know
More serious warning signs include an Apple Account you can no longer control, unknown management profiles, apps installed outside your expectations, or repeated security notifications from Apple about account activity. If you suspect your Apple Account is compromised, change its password from a trusted device and review the devices associated with the account.