Despite their reputation for security, iPhones are not immune from malware attacks. IT and users should learn the signs of mobile malware and the steps to take when they appear.
Mobile devices such as iPhones can create new security concerns for organizations, and malware comes with unique considerations on these endpoints too.
Apple devices are known for their strong encryption, secure boot process and other security-centered features. While these features might reassure organizations concerned with data privacy and security, mobile malware is still a threat that IT administrators must consider with enterprise iPhones.
The various types of malware attacks that have long been a problem for desktop computers, such as ransomware and spyware, can occur on smartphones as well. There are also mobile-specific attack vectors, such as SMS phishing, which targets victims through SMS text messages. To avoid the damage that malware can cause, IT teams should understand how to prevent, detect and remove malware on iPhones.
Are iPhones susceptible to malware?
Apple devices have traditionally had a reputation for being less susceptible to malware than other OSes. This is primarily due to two factors: the closed nature of the Apple ecosystem and the company's strong focus on security. By keeping users within a proprietary platform, Apple can tightly control what code can and cannot run on its devices. In turn, users can only install vetted and approved apps on iPhones, iPads and Macs. This approach, combined with the company's strict guidelines and policies for app developers, has helped prevent malware from spreading through the official App Store.
Second, Apple has incorporated many security features into its devices and software. For example, iOS and macOS have built-in encryption and containerization to help protect against security threats such as malware. Apple has also built enterprise tools, such as Automated Device Enrollment, to ensure devices are always managed. Other enterprise security features include supervised mode, which gives IT admins the highest privileges on corporate-owned devices for management.
Apple's close-knit ecosystem provides some degree of protection against certain types of attacks, but it isn't foolproof. For example, there have been instances where malware authors have exploited vulnerabilities in iOS or other software components to gain access to user data. Apple frequently has to disclose and release patches for zero-day security flaws as a part of software updates.
Although iOS devices continue to have a strong reputation for security, users and IT teams need to take steps to prevent malware and remediate any threats. Measures include using strong passwords, keeping software up to date and investing in MDM tools and mobile threat detection.
6 signs of malware on an iPhone
Users and IT should pay attention to iPhone and iPad performance, as many issues can appear because of a malware infection. Look out for signs such as odd notifications and poor performance on mobile devices to detect malware before it becomes a larger issue.
1. Unfamiliar apps
One of the telltale signs of malware on an iPhone is the presence of unfamiliar third-party apps or programs. Malicious hackers can install malware to access a user's device, steal data and even hijack accounts. If users notice any apps that they did not install, the phone might be compromised.
2. Unfamiliar messages being received or sent
For malware to send text messages, it needs access to the device's messaging system and permissions, which can be challenging for cybercriminals to get without the user's knowledge or consent. However, through methods such as social engineering, malicious actors can find ways to obtain users' iCloud information, granting them access to services such as iMessage. If a user notices unfamiliar sent or received messages on their device, IT must investigate the source and possible infection.
Some MDM systems can monitor data usage and provide IT admins with tools and reports for it.
3. Excessive data usage
Another sign of a malware infection on an iPhone is excessive data usage. Malware often has to send information back to its command-and-control server, resulting in high data consumption levels. If a user notices unusually high data usage, it might be time to check if any malicious programs have been installed onto the device. Some MDM systems can monitor data usage and provide IT admins with tools and reports for it.
4. Unusual battery drain
Malware can also drain battery life significantly. This is because it runs in the background, consuming energy without the user's knowledge. If a phone's battery is draining more quickly than usual, it might be a good idea to check for any suspicious software running in the background.
5. Unexpected notifications
Unusual notifications from unknown sources or apps can also indicate malware presence on an iPhone. Some malicious programs are designed to send out spam messages and pop-up ads. If users spot anything abnormal coming through, it could mean that the device has a malware infection.
6. Erratic performance and crashes
Malware can cause iPhones to behave unexpectedly. The device might abruptly restart or shut down, and apps might crash or freeze, even if they've been working without issues in the past. Similar to battery drain, overheating and slow performance can be a sign that malware is using system resources in the background.
How to secure iPhones from malware
If an iPhone shows signs that it's infected with malware, it's crucial to take action to remove the malicious software and deter other threats. Organizations can take a few different steps to eliminate malware and keep corporate and personal data secure.
Check whether the iPhone is jailbroken
While jailbreaking has become more difficult to do in recent versions of iOS, if users are motivated enough, they can usually find a way. Jailbreaking a device can lead to many different security concerns, as it gives malware easy access to the device. To check if an iPhone is jailbroken, look for any unfamiliar apps on the device. Additionally, check under Settings > General > VPN & Device Management to see if any unknown profiles are installed on the device.
IT admins can also use MDM tools to monitor an iPhone's jailbroken status. These tools can automate compliance policies to quarantine devices until they are remediated.
Remove suspicious apps
If a user notices an unfamiliar app on their device, they should remove it and see whether that resolves malware-related issues. To delete an app from an iPhone, press and hold the app icon until menu options appear. Next, select Remove App. When a confirmation screen appears, select Delete App, then confirm again by selecting Delete.
Update mobile devices regularly
It's important to make sure that users have the latest software installed on their devices. If an iPhone shows signs of a malware infection, one of the first steps IT and users should take is to update iOS. Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install the latest version of the operating system.
All endpoints should be running the latest software, and all apps should have the most recent updates. This helps protect devices from any newly discovered vulnerabilities and exploits. IT teams can use an MDM platform to enforce OS version compliance and push essential security updates to endpoints.
Clear the iPhone's browsing history and data
A malware infection can come from malicious websites in the iPhone's browser. To address this possibility, navigate to Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data. When a confirmation screen appears, select Clear History and Data.
Monitor and take control with MDM and mobile threat detection
MDM enables IT to enforce security policies and monitor metrics such as device health status. Organizations can also identify and prevent security risks with mobile antivirus software or threat detection tools. These scan for malicious apps, network attacks and other vulnerabilities on a device in real time. Popular offerings include Lookout, Zimperium, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint and Bitdefender. Look for tools that provide real-time protection, detection of malicious websites and links, and other security features.
Educate and train end users
While MDM can do a lot to bar employees from making mistakes that enable malware to spread, end users still play a role in protecting mobile data. Provide cybersecurity training to educate users on mobile security best practices and how to spot untrustworthy apps and websites.
End users should know to be especially wary of emails and messages, including iMessages, that ask them to click on a link or download an attachment. Even if they claim to be from a legitimate source, these could be phishing attempts and can put devices at risk of malware infection.
Make sure connections are secure
Only connect to trusted sources when accessing public Wi-Fi networks. Do not share any information or access any sensitive data when connected to an insecure network. Additionally, IT admins can use MDM to build secure per-app VPN connections. With this feature, an organization can configure a VPN connection for specific apps on managed devices.
Enable two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication is a security measure that requires users to provide two forms of authentication -- typically a password and a verification code -- to access their accounts or devices. This provides an extra security layer and helps prevent unauthorized access, even if a password is compromised.
Monitor device activity
Keep an eye on what apps are running. IT admins can use MDM to help generate reports around device application inventory and ensure app compliance. Additionally, many MDM systems can integrate into mobile threat detection and other security tools. This enables them to quarantine devices based on how the device or apps are behaving and any potential threats.
If malware is still present, admins might have to wipe the iPhone with a factory reset. This restores the device's factory settings and erases whatever the source of the malware might be.
Editor's note:This article was updated to reflect changes in the best practices for malware removal and to improve the reader experience.
Michael Goad is a freelance writer and solutions architect with experience handling mobility in an enterprise setting.
