Although it’s less likely that your iPhone will become infected with malware than a PC would, it still happens, and so installing an antivirus app or software on your iPhone can help to keep your device secure. Whether it’s annoying ads, malicious websites, or web trackers, installing antivirus on your iPhone can give you a little more peace of mind.
Finding the best antivirus for your iPhone means reading reviews, studying product features, and diving into the ins and outs of available security levels and protections. With the right antivirus for iPhone, keeping your phone protected from malware and other attacks can become a quick, over-and-done-with task.
We reviewed dozens of antiviruses for iPhone to identify the best of the best, based on Amazon reviews, how well they performed in tests, cost, and other considerations. We narrowed our search down to 5 of the top-rated antiviruses for iPhone people can purchase to ensure their device is secure.
We’ve identified Norton 360 Deluxe as the best antivirus for iPhone out there. With the ability to download instantly and install protection for up to 5 PCs, Macs, iOS, or Android devices in minutes, this antivirus for iPhone is one that will keep your device securely protected and running in tip-top shape.
The 5 Top-Rated Antiviruses for iPhone
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Antivirus for iPhone Overall | Norton 360 Deluxe | 4.0 |
| Best Antivirus for iPhone App | Avast Security & Privacy | 4.7 |
| Best Free Antivirus for iPhone | McAfee Mobile Security | 4.3 |
| Best Subscription Antivirus for iPhone | Lookout Mobile Security | 4.7 |
| Best Antivirus for iPhone With Cloud-Backup | G DATA Total Security | 4.0 |
*Ratings are from Amazon and the Apple App Store at the time of publication and can change
Best Antivirus for iPhone Overall: Norton 360 Deluxe
The Norton 360 Deluxe antivirus took the top spot on our list of the best antiviruses for iPhone, with instant download to quickly install protection for up to 5 PCs, Macs, iOS, or Android devices in just minutes. It protects against existing and emerging malware threats, including ransomware and viruses. Access to a secure VPN lets you browse anonymously on public WiFi networks, with bank-grade encryption to keep all your data secure. Dark web monitoring powered by LIFELOCK alerts you if your personal information is found on the dark web.
Those who purchased and reviewed this antivirus for iPhone appreciated that it was easy to download and install, and found it simple to set up. One thing people didn’t like about this antivirus was that it auto renewed, but this feature can be turned off at any time to avoid unexpected charges.
With a price tag of about $35/year, it’s a bit of an investment, but the quality protection and service associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has excellent ratings with thousands of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people to make the investment.
Norton 360 Deluxe Key Features:
- Won’t slow down your device
- Supports current iOS and previous two versions (iPhone or iPad)
- Auto-renews so you’re never without protection
Best Antivirus for iPhone App: Avast Security & Privacy
Avast Security & Privacy took the runner-up spot on our list of the best antiviruses for iPhone, and offers both free and paid features that allow you to protect your device however you prefer. Included with the free version are: threats and vulnerabilities scan; malicious website blocker; WiFi security; identity protection for one account; and security and privacy tips for your device. Paid users enjoy all this plus: VPN protection; all account identity protection; and a photo vault which protects photos in an encrypted folder by securing them by PIN, Touch ID, or Face ID.
Those who purchased and reviewed this antivirus for iPhone appreciated that even at the free tier, there were still plenty of useful features to help keep their device safe and secure. People also liked the ease of being able to check WiFi safety and leaked passwords right from the app.
It is free to download the app, with in-app purchase available at various prices from $2.49/month-$24.99/year. The quality service associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies even the additional fees. It has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on the App Store with thousands of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people to make the investment.
Avast Security & Privacy Key Features:
- Photo vault
- Identity protection
- Free tier option
Best Free Antivirus for iPhone: McAfee Mobile Security
The McAfee Mobile Security is an excellent choice for those looking for an antivirus for iPhone that won’t break the bank. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of some of the other antivirus options on our list, it does come with the standard features of its PC virus protection software that people know and love. Features include anti-theft protection, contacts backup, and secure local storage for your media files. It also offers the ability to remotely wipe your contacts if your device is stolen, and includes a battery indicator which allows you to check your iPhone battery level on your Apple Watch.
Those who downloaded and reviewed this antivirus for iPhone appreciated that it was easy to set up and offered anti-theft security. People really liked that they received a solid level of protection with minimal effort on their part.
With no monthly or annual fees, this antivirus for iPhone is a solid choice for those looking for an antivirus for iPhone option on a budget. It has great ratings from thousands of people who’ve reviewed it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people that this budget-friendly pick is just as good at securing their device as its more expensive counterparts.
McAfee Mobile Security Key Features:
- Detects malicious apps, risky websites, and unsecured WiFi
- Instantly removes junk files
- Easily locate your device if it’s lost, stolen
Best Subscription Antivirus for iPhone: Lookout Mobile Security
The Lookout Mobile Security app is an excellent option for those looking for a subscription-based antivirus for iPhone. While there is a free version of this antivirus, the valuable security features are in the subscription version. It offers four layers of protection in order to provide deep security for your device. It checks for common security vulnerabilities including missing updates or a jailbroken device, and will alert you should you connect to a dangerous WiFi network.
Those who purchased and reviewed this antivirus for iPhone appreciated that the alarm was audible even when their device was on silent, and that there were automatic alerts for updates. People also appreciated that it “comes with security for your personal information such as your debit cards and email addresses.”
With a price tag of $9.99/month for the Premium Plus version, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality protection associated with the service, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on the App Store with tens of thousands of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people to make the investment.
Lookout Mobile Security Key Features:
- Monitors running apps for suspect activity
- Various device location tools
- Includes $1M identity theft Insurance for Premium Plus subscribers
Best Antivirus for iPhone With Cloud-Backup: G DATA Total Security
The G DATA Total Security is a solid choice for those wanting an antivirus for iPhone with cloud backup. You have the choice of backing up your device locally on your computer, or in the cloud using Dropbox or Google Drive. Its security analysis feature checks your device for potential risks, and the phishing protection functionality immediately blocks manipulated and fraudulent sites, keeping your online transactions secure.
Those who purchased and reviewed this antivirus for iPhone appreciated that it offered an extremely high level of security for daily use at home, and while on public WiFi networks. People also liked the strong firewall, data encryption, and exploit protection this software offers. Users also commented on the ease of using the Password Manager to have access to all their important data with ease.
At a cost of around $50, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality protection associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has really good ratings from hundreds of people who’ve reviewed it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people to make the investment.
G DATA Total Security Key Features:
- Protection against online blackmailers and other Internet criminals
- Online banking and shopping protection
- Access control blocks unauthorized devices
Who Should Buy an Antivirus for iPhone
Although it’s less likely that your iPhone will become infected with malware than a PC would, it still happens, and so installing an antivirus app or software on your iPhone can help to keep your device secure.
An antivirus for iPhone is an ideal choice for those who don’t want to deal with annoying ads, as many of them stop these pop-ups from ruining your user experience, or causing you to accidentally click on a link you wouldn’t want to.
Additionally, antivirus for iPhone is also a good choice for people who want to ensure that tracking software is not installed on their phones. Some hackers will install tracking software on your phone or use a fake website to record keystrokes in order to gain access to your sensitive personal information, such as bank PIN or other passwords.
Finally, some people find that an antivirus for iPhone is useful for protecting their device in case someone grabs their device when they aren’t looking. A good antivirus software can ensure malware does not get installed onto your device. Installing antivirus on your iPhone can give you a little more peace of mind that you’re protected from threats of various kinds.
If you’re on the fence on whether you need a replacement for your phone, why not try How To Compare IPhones: Do You Need A New IPhone?
Important Features to Consider
Not all antiviruses for iPhones are created equal. An antivirus for iPhone should be easy to install and protect your device from new and ongoing threats. Here’s what to consider when evaluating the options in search of the best antivirus for your iPhone:
- Compatibility. Luckily, iPhones aren’t as susceptible to viruses and attacks, so there aren’t too many antivirus softwares specifically designed for them. Be sure that any antivirus you choose is compatible with your iPhone model and iOS software before installing.
- Number of licenses. If you have more than one iPhone to protect, like those of us with a family plan, it may be worth it to look for an antivirus software that gives you multiple or unlimited licenses for the most value.
- App lock password protection. If you plan on maintaining sensitive information on any of your apps, (like photos or passwords), you can find an antivirus software that allows you to put a lock on specific apps, either using a pin, Face ID, or touch ID.
- Identity theft protection. Some antivirus will scan the dark web and alert you to any potential compromises of your personal information. This sort of scanning is helpful to maintain privacy and financial security.
- Protection level. One of the most important things to consider when shopping for the best antivirus for iPhone is the protection level. The best antiviruses will offer protection for both web-based and local threats. Some antiviruses will only protect against one or two particular threats, but in order to have the most security possible, you want to look for an antivirus with protection from malware, spyware, trackers, pop-ups, blockers, and other threats.
- Auto-renewal. Some people might be surprised when their annual antivirus renewal hits on subscription-based services, but if you never want to be left without protection, an antivirus that auto-renews is a good option.
- Price point. Of course, you’ll still want to consider how much you are willing to spend. The phones themselves can cost a pretty penny so the extras may require a stricter budget. You can expect antivirus for your iPhone to be between $0-$70/year or more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is antivirus for iPhone and how does it work?
Antivirus for iPhone is a type of software you install on your phone (usually via an app) in order to protect your device from malware and other threats. It works in the background of your device in order to ensure that malware cannot be installed and that any hacking attempts are blocked.
Do I need virus protection for my iPhone?
For the majority of people, virus protection on their iPhone is not necessary. By simply keeping your phone’s operating system and applications up to date, you can stay protected from most threats. Not jailbreaking your phone and only installing apps from Apple’s App Store is another way to keep your device secure. That said, iPhones aren’t immune to threats, and many people appreciate the additional peace of mind that an antivirus for iPhone offers.
How do I know if there’s a virus on my iPhone?
Common signs that there’s a virus on your iPhone include a sudden spike in your data usage, pop-ups that won’t go away or freeze your screen, and a rapidly draining battery. If your phone is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s possible you could have a virus. Other signs your phone has a virus include Safari continually redirecting you to the app store, frequent app crashes, settings changing, or email and text messages being sent automatically without your permission.
How do I clear a virus on my iPhone?
If you think that your iPhone has a virus on it, the first step to clear it is to power down your device and restart it. This can resolve many issues. If that doesn’t work, try restarting your phone.
For iPhone 8 and later, press and quickly release the volume up button, then press and quickly release the volume down button. Press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears, then release the button.
For iPhone 7 and 7+, press and hold both the volume down button and the Sleep/Wake button until the Apple logo appears, then release both buttons.
Next, you’ll need to clear your browser history. Open Settings, then scroll down and tap Safari. Tap Clear History and Website Data, then Clear to confirm.
If that still hasn’t solved the problem, you can try restoring your iPhone or iPad to a recent backup when you weren’t experiencing problems.
If all else fails, you can take your iPhone to an Apple Store to see if they can help remove the virus. Be sure to back up your device beforehand, as the Genius will likely erase everything in order to install iOS fresh. You can also completely reset your device yourself, by opening Settings then tapping General. Scroll down and tap Reset, followed by Erase All Content and Settings.
Other Antiviruses for iPhone We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other antiviruses for iPhone. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best antiviruses for iPhone list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for securing your device. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Subscription Antiviruses for iPhone
- Antivirus for iPhone Apps
- Free Antiviruses for iPhone
- Antiviruses for iPhone With Cloud Backup
Subscription Antiviruses for iPhone
This subscription antivirus for iPhones boasts cross-platform protection, and comes complete with a microphone monitor for added peace of mind that no one is listening in on your conversation.
Key Features:
- Improved parental controls
- Real-time data protection
- Automatic updates
Cost: $50
This subscription antivirus for iPhones provides 24/7 protection, and installs in just minutes. Automatic updates ensure your device is always secure.
Key Features:
- Scans quickly and quietly
- Advanced virus, malware, and spyware protection
- Real-time cloud detection
Cost: $45
This subscription antivirus for iPhones lets you protect multiple devices with a single license, and features automatic updates to ensure you’re always protected from threats and vulnerabilities.
Key Features:
- Stops online theft
- Stops browser tracking
- Parental controls
Cost: $40
This subscription antivirus for iPhones boasts protection for up to 5 devices for 2 years, and offers real-time security against everything from viruses and ransomware to hidden snoopers, hackers, and more.
Key Features:
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Secure VPN protection
- Digital download
Cost: $37
This subscription antivirus for iPhones boasts protection against malicious websites, as well as unwanted ads and trackers, helping to reduce data usage and loading times.
Key Features:
- iMessage protection
- SafeSurfing built-in secure browser
- Parental control tools
Cost: $18.99/annually
This subscription antivirus for iPhones lets you enjoy faster and safer internet browsing, at 2-3x the speed while using 50% less data.
Key Features:
- Auto renew subscription
- Protection from malware
- Integrated ad and popup blocker
Antivirus for iPhone Apps
This antivirus for iPhone app boasts all-in-one protection, privacy, and performance so you can rest easy your device is safe from threats whether at home or on a public WiFi network.
Key Features:
- Scans for security, privacy, and performance issues
- Secure VPN access
- Identity safeguard
Cost: $0
This antivirus for iPhone app boasts browsing protection to keep you safe while on the internet, whether you’re sending and receiving email or online shopping.
Key Features:
- Parental controls
- Device finder
- AdBlocker feature
Cost: $13.99/device
This antivirus for iPhone app boasts a warning feature that alerts you when your device is connected to an unencrypted or unsecured WiFi network for added security.
Key Features:
- Ad-free
- Does not collect any personal information
- Verifies your system is up to date
Cost: $0 with in-app purchases
This antivirus for iPhone app boasts secure browsing features along with privacy protection to help keep you secure and protected while using your device.
Key Features:
- Photo vault
- Wi-Fi security
- Built-in VPN
Cost: $0 with in-app purchases
This antivirus for iPhone app comes from one of the world’s most trusted brands in tech security, and notifies you if your device is under attack.
Key Features:
- 14-day free trial
- Subscription renews automatically
- Safeguards from malicious websites
Cost: $0 with in-app purchases
Mobile Security Anti Virus Url
This antivirus for iPhone app boasts the ability to block malware, video ads, pop-ups, flashing banners, and more, for a faster, more enjoyable mobile browsing experience.
Key Features:
- Tracker blocker
- Auto renews monthly
- Requires iOS 10.0 or later
Cost: $0 with in-app purchases
Free Antiviruses for iPhone
This free antivirus for iPhone helps keep your accounts protected from hackers, while also providing alerts in case your credit card number is stolen.
Key Features:
- Scans the dark web for personal info
- Google, Facebook, Instagram protection
- Identifies fraudulent filters
Cost: $0
Phone Guardian Mobile Security
This free antivirus for iPhone provides a secure mobile phone environment that keeps hackers away from your personal information when connected to WiFi.
Key Features:
- Latest VPN technology
- Encrypts your private online information
- Requires iOS 11.0 or later
Cost: $0
This free antivirus for iPhone boasts the ability to block account takeovers, trackers, and annoying ads, and provides a detailed history of all blocked threats.
Key Features:
- Check your personal security any time
- Instant rogue website notification
- Requires iOS 12.0 or later
Cost: $0
This free antivirus for iPhone boasts the ability to scan for security risks on your phone, repair any found risks, and prevent your personal information being compromised due to security risks.
Key Features:
- Mobile health check-up
- Encrypted safe vault
- Backup and recover contacts
Antiviruses for iPhone With Cloud Backup
Kaspersky Security Cloud & VPN
This antivirus for iPhones with cloud backup boasts personalized security alerts, and comes complete with password management and a tool that helps you stay in control of private account data.
Key Features:
- Cloud-based service
- Secure and fast VPN
- Automatic updates
Cost: $0 with in-app purchases
This antivirus for iPhones with cloud backup boasts protection for up to 10 devices, and comes complete with VPN, dark web monitoring, and a money-back guarantee.
Key Features:
- Auto-renews so you’re never without protection
- Parental controls
- Protects against existing and emerging malware threats
Cost: $30
This antivirus for iPhones with cloud backup boasts a combination of cloud-based and offline security features to protect your privacy, identity, and devices from malware and hackers.
Key Features:
- Award-winning antivirus software
- Parental controls
- Instant download
Cost: $45
eScan Universal Security Suite
This antivirus for iPhones with cloud backup provides protection against evolving cyber threats for up to three users for a year.
Key Features:
- Advanced anti-spam technology
- Parental controls
- Proactive scanning
Cost: $73
