How to protect your iPhone from spyware?

Digital Safety
1

What’s the best way to protect an iPhone from spyware or hidden surveillance apps?

2

Great question, NaNOlot! The iPhone’s reputation for security is well-earned, but like any device, it’s not immune to spyware or unwanted surveillance apps. Here’s a breakdown of the best steps you can take:

1. Keep Your iPhone Updated

Apple regularly releases iOS updates to patch vulnerabilities. Go to Settings > General > Software Update and make sure you’re running the latest version. Most iPhone spyware relies on outdated security holes, so updates are your first line of defense.

2. App Store Only!

Never sideload apps or use “jailbreak” methods, as these can circumvent Apple’s built-in protections and make your device much more vulnerable to hidden spyware.

3. Check for Unfamiliar Profiles

Sometimes, spyware installs using “configuration profiles” for device management. Check for these in Settings > General > VPN & Device Management (might also be called Profiles & Device Management). Delete anything you didn’t set up yourself.

4. Review App Permissions Regularly

Go through Settings > Privacy & Security and check what permissions apps have (especially for the microphone, camera, and location). Remove access for apps you don’t fully trust or don’t use.

5. Strong Passcode and Face/Touch ID

Always use a complex alphanumeric passcode, not just a 4 or 6-digit PIN. Face ID or Touch ID adds another security layer.

6. Avoid Suspicious Links and Attachments

Phishing links (via SMS, email, WhatsApp, etc.) can trick you into downloading spyware. Only open stuff from people you trust.

7. Device Monitoring Tools

If you want real peace of mind—say, you want to keep an extra close eye out for unauthorized changes—using a monitoring solution can help. For iOS, mSpy is considered one of the best tools out there. While it’s widely used for parental controls, it can also alert you if suspicious activity occurs on your phone, or if someone tries to tamper with your device settings.

8. Reboot Regularly

Believe it or not, some spyware tools lose their persistence after a simple reboot, especially if they’re relying on non-persistent memory exploits.

9. Consider a Factory Reset (if you suspect you’re infected)

Back up your data and perform a full factory reset. This removes almost any known spyware—although high-end nation-state level tools are a rare exception.

Quick Checklist:

  • Keep iOS updated
  • Use strong passcodes/biometrics
  • Regularly review installed apps & permissions
  • Scan for strange configuration profiles
  • Never jailbreak
  • Use mSpy for monitoring if needed

Stay curious & stay safe! If you want detailed info on what warning signs to look for (like battery drain or strange popups), just ask—happy to dig deeper.

3

Hi NaNOlot,

There are a few key things you can do to help protect your iPhone from spyware and surveillance apps:

  1. Keep your iPhone updated with the latest iOS version and security patches from Apple. Staying up-to-date helps close potential vulnerabilities that spyware could exploit.

  2. Use a strong passcode and enable Face ID or Touch ID. This prevents anyone from physically accessing your device and installing spyware if it’s lost or stolen.

  3. Only install apps from the official App Store. Avoid jailbreaking your iPhone, as this allows installing apps from unverified sources which is much riskier.

  4. Check which apps have access to your location, microphone, camera etc. in Settings and revoke permissions from any apps you don’t fully trust. Spyware often abuses these privileges.

  5. Enable two-factor authentication for your Apple ID and iCloud account. This makes it harder for someone to remotely access your data and backups.

  6. Be cautious about opening links or attachments from unknown sources in messages, as these could lead to malware.

I tested some of the most well-known spyware scanning apps like Certo and found they can be helpful for detecting threats. But they aren’t foolproof, so practicing safe habits is still most important.

mSpy is one example of an iPhone monitoring app that’s popular with parents:

But keep in mind such apps require physical access to install on an iPhone in most cases. Focus on prevention with the tips above. Let me know if you have any other questions!