12 Best iPhone antivirus apps (October 2023)

Do iPhones Need Antivirus Apps?

The question of whether iPhones need antivirus apps is a hot topic. Many people believe that iPhones are immune to viruses and malware. But is this really the case? Let's delve into the world of iPhone security and find out.

The Myth of Invulnerability

Firstly, let's dispel a common myth. It's often said that iPhones are immune to viruses. This is not entirely true. While iPhones are designed with a number of security features that make them harder to infect than other devices, they are not completely invulnerable.

For example, in 2015, a malware called XcodeGhost managed to infiltrate the Apple App Store, infecting several popular apps. This was a wake-up call for many iPhone users who believed their devices were untouchable.

iOS: A Fortified Fortress

Despite the occasional breach, the iOS platform is a fortified fortress. It's designed with multiple layers of security to protect against viruses and malware.

For instance, all apps on the App Store are rigorously vetted by Apple before they're made available. This reduces the risk of downloading a malicious app. Additionally, iOS operates in a 'sandbox' environment, which means apps can't access data from other apps. This limits the damage a malicious app can do.

The Role of User Behavior

However, the security of your iPhone largely depends on how you use it. If you only download apps from the App Store and don't jailbreak your device, you're significantly reducing your risk of infection.

On the other hand, if you frequently visit unsecured websites, download unverified apps, or click on suspicious links, you're putting your device at risk. In these cases, an antivirus app could provide an extra layer of protection.

The Verdict

So, do iPhones need antivirus apps? The answer is not straightforward. For the average user who only downloads apps from the App Store and practices safe browsing habits, the built-in security features of iOS should be sufficient.

However, for those who like to venture off the beaten path, an antivirus app could be a wise investment. It's like a safety net, catching any threats that may slip through the cracks.

In conclusion, while iPhones are not completely immune to viruses, they are significantly more secure than many other devices. Whether or not you need an antivirus app depends largely on your usage habits. Always remember, the first line of defense against viruses and malware is caution and common sense.

Stay tuned for the next section where we will delve into the key features to look for in iPhone antivirus apps.

Key Features to Look for in iPhone Antivirus Apps

When it comes to protecting your iPhone, not all antivirus apps are created equal. Some offer basic protection, while others provide a comprehensive shield against a wide range of threats. So, what should you look for in an iPhone antivirus app? Let's dive in and explore.

Real-Time Protection

First and foremost, an effective antivirus app should offer real-time protection. This means it's constantly running in the background, scanning for threats. It's like having a vigilant guard on duty, ready to spring into action the moment a threat is detected.

Regular Updates

Viruses and malware are constantly evolving, and new threats emerge every day. Therefore, it's crucial that your antivirus app is regularly updated to combat these ever-changing threats. An app that isn't updated is like a guard who's fallen asleep on the job.

Web Protection

Many threats come from the web. You might click on a malicious link or visit an unsecured website, exposing your device to risk. An effective antivirus app should offer web protection, alerting you to these dangers before you stumble into them.

Privacy Protection

In this digital age, privacy is paramount. Some antivirus apps offer features that protect your personal data, such as VPN services and anti-tracking features. These ensure that your online activities remain private and secure.

Ease of Use

An antivirus app should be easy to use. You shouldn't need a degree in computer science to navigate its features. Look for an app with a user-friendly interface and clear instructions.

Customer Support

Finally, good customer support is essential. If you encounter a problem or have a question, you'll want to know there's a responsive and helpful team ready to assist you.

In Conclusion

Choosing the right antivirus app for your iPhone is a critical task. It's about more than just protection; it's about peace of mind. By considering these key features, you can ensure you're making an informed decision that best suits your needs.

Remember, the best defense is a good offense. Equip your iPhone with a robust antivirus app, and you'll be well prepared to tackle any digital threats that come your way.

Stay safe, stay secure, and most importantly, stay smart in the ever-evolving world of digital security.

12 Best iPhone antivirus apps

1. McAfee

Best for: comprehensive protection across multiple devices and operating systems.

Claiming the top spot on our list, McAfee is a widely respected antivirus utility with a global reach. It gives full protection for personal devices like computers, smartphones, and tablets.

The software is made to protect privacy, identity, and data from threats like malware, phishing attacks, and identity theft. McAfee's antivirus is known for being very effective, making sure devices are safe from new threats and giving users peace of mind.

One special feature of McAfee is its Virtual Private Network (VPN). This lets users connect privately and safely to public Wi-Fi networks. It is made to protect personal data and credit card information from possible cyber threats.

McAfee also has an identity monitoring feature that keeps an eye on personal information like email accounts and phone numbers. This helps give early warnings if there are any breaches, letting users act quickly to protect their data.

Features:

• Comprehensive Protection: McAfee gives all-in-one protection for privacy, identity, and personal devices, making a safe digital environment.
• Antivirus Capabilities: McAfee's antivirus feature finds and gets rid of viruses, malware, and other online threats, keeping your devices safe.
• Virtual Private Network (VPN): McAfee's VPN makes your internet connection private and safe, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks.
• Identity Monitoring: McAfee's identity monitoring feature tells you if there are any changes or breaches to your personal information, letting you act quickly to protect yourself from identity theft.
• Web Protection: McAfee's web protection feature stops access to risky websites, links, and files, preventing you from becoming a victim of phishing attacks and other online threats.
• Compatibility: McAfee works with different devices and operating systems, letting you protect all your devices, including Windows PCs, Macs, Android devices, iOS devices, and Chromebooks.

2. Norton

Best for: advanced antivirus and malware protection with identity theft protection.

Finishing a strong second, Norton is another reputable antivirus software making its mark. It gives full protection for devices and keeps online privacy and identity safe. Norton was made to create a safe digital space.

It is known for its top antivirus and malware protection. The software protects devices from many online threats and improves user privacy and security. Norton has special features that make it different in the cybersecurity market.

It has a Secure VPN that makes personal information secret, which keeps online privacy safe. The software also has dark web monitoring. This tool checks the dark web to see if the user's personal information is exposed. Norton also has LifeLock identity theft protection. This gives extra security against identity theft.

Norton 360 is a full solution from Norton. It has antivirus, malware, ransomware, and hacking protection all in one. It also has extra features like cloud backup, password manager, VPN private internet connection, parental control, and privacy monitor. This gives a full security solution.

Besides the main antivirus software, Norton has other security software and services. These include Norton Computer Tune Up, Norton Family, Norton Ultimate Help Desk, Norton Utilities Ultimate, and Norton Small Business. Each one is made to meet specific user needs and improve overall cybersecurity.

Features:

• Comprehensive Protection: Norton gives full protection for devices, online privacy, and identity. It protects users from many online threats.
• Antivirus and Malware Protection: Norton has top antivirus and malware protection. It effectively stops viruses, malware, and ransomware.
• Secure VPN: Norton's Secure VPN makes personal information secret. This keeps online privacy safe and internet browsing secure.
• Dark Web Monitoring: This feature checks the dark web to see if personal information is exposed. It gives active protection against identity theft.
• LifeLock Identity Theft Protection: Norton has LifeLock identity theft protection. This gives extra security against identity theft.

3. Avira

Best for: real-time defense against malware and online threats with a free VPN service.

Bit shy from the gold yet far from last, Avira snags the third position with its reliably robust cybersecurity protection. It is known for its strong antivirus protection and many security features. It is made to protect users from many online threats like harmful websites, ransomware, and spyware.

Avira's power comes from its strong antivirus engine that works in real-time. It scans and blocks all kinds of online threats. This makes sure that users are safe at all times, even when online threats change.

Besides its strong antivirus protection, Avira has many security features that make it even better at defending. These include a free VPN that makes users' online activities safe and private, a speed booster that makes PCs work better, and a password manager that makes online accounts safer with strong, unique passwords.

Avira also has anti-scam protection to protect users from phishing attacks, a firewall to stop unauthorized device access, and software updates to fix weaknesses and improve security. These features, along with Avira's easy-to-use design and low impact on the system, make it a good choice for users who want a safer and more secure online experience.

Features:

• Antivirus Protection: Avira gives real-time defense against malware and online threats, making sure your devices are always protected.
• Free VPN: Avira's free VPN service makes your web browsing safe and keeps your online activities private, giving an extra layer of privacy.
• Speed Booster: This feature makes your PC work better, making sure users have a smooth and efficient experience.
• Password Manager: Avira's password manager makes and remembers secure passwords for each of your online accounts, making your online security better.
• Firewall: Avira's firewall feature stops unauthorized access to your devices, making your digital environment even safer.
• Regular Software Updates: Avira regularly updates its software to fix weaknesses and improve security, making sure that users are always protected against the newest threats.

4. TotalAV

Best for: multi-device compatibility and real-time protection against viruses and threats.

TotalAV is a globally utilized antivirus and security software. It is known for its strong ability to protect users from harmful threats and viruses. It provides complete protection, security, and privacy for people who want to keep their digital world safe.

The software's real-time protection feature is very good. It checks downloads, installs, and executables for any possible risks each time the computer uses them. TotalAV has more than 30 million users around the world. It can be used on different platforms like Mac, PC, and iOS, showing its flexibility.

The software can get rid of malware and stop harmful threats, making browsing safe and secure. Also, TotalAV's special system tune-up tools improve device performance. Its disk cleaner feature finds and removes duplicate files, gets rid of junk files, and makes the system work better.

Features:

• Multi-Device Compatibility: TotalAV can be used on up to three devices. It has easy-to-use apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices.
• Real-Time Protection: TotalAV constantly checks downloads, installs, and executables for viruses and threats. It detects and stops them right away.
• WebShield: TotalAV's WebShield is the first line of defense against fake websites that try to break security and steal personal information.
• Scheduled Smart Scans: This feature lets users set up scans to run automatically. This keeps the system safe and secure all the time.
• Data Breach Monitoring: TotalAV actively checks users' personal email addresses. It sends notifications if any data is at risk, giving extra security.

5. Bitdefender Mobile Security

Best for: mobile security with a secure VPN and privacy firewall.

Bitdefender Mobile Security for Android is a comprehensive antivirus app providing total protection against viruses and malware. It is made to give many features and tools that make sure Android devices are safe and secure.

Bitdefender Mobile Security is known for its top-notch e-threat detection, which uses cloud-based malware detection to give real-time protection against all new and existing online threats. It always scans devices for any harmful behavior and tells users right away, making sure their digital safety.

One special feature of Bitdefender Mobile Security is its smart anti-theft experience. This feature lets users find, lock, erase, or send a message to their Android device if it is lost or stolen. It also has a self-defense feature that takes a picture of anyone who tries to mess with the device and sends it to the user's Bitdefender Central account.

This full security solution also offers a secure VPN for safe and anonymous web surfing, an account privacy feature that checks for involvement in data breaches, and a small impact on battery life because of its cloud-based scanning.

Features:

• Secure VPN: Bitdefender Mobile Security has a secure VPN that gives a fast, anonymous, and safe experience while surfing the web. It encrypts all your internet traffic and protects your online presence.
• App Lock: This feature lets users lock their most sensitive apps with a PIN code, adding an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access to settings or private information.
• Web Protection: Bitdefender Mobile Security scans webpages for phishing attempts and fraudulent pages, making sure internet browsing is safe.
• Malware Scanner: This feature gives detailed information about the types of threats users are protected against. It scans Android devices for malware and tells users if any threats are found.
• Privacy Firewall: Bitdefender Mobile Security has a privacy firewall that blocks intrusions and filters network traffic, making sure user privacy and security.

6. Avast Security & Privacy

Best for: multi-platform support and real-time threat detection.

Avast Security & Privacy is a renowned antivirus app safeguarding against numerous online threats. It has over 435 million users and offers many features to keep your devices safe.

One of its best features is its ability to find and stop threats. It uses complex methods to find and stop both known and new threats. It always checks your system for harmful software like malware, viruses, ransomware, and others.

The app also has a smart scan feature that lets users do detailed checks on software, files, and apps to find weak spots and possible security risks. It also checks suspicious files in the cloud and gives real-time threat alerts.

Avast Security & Privacy also focuses on safe connectivity. It lets users safely connect to any Wi-Fi network, even ones that aren't secure. It also lets you check your home Wi-Fi network and stop any unauthorized users with one click.

Avast Security & Privacy protects against ransomware attacks, stopping hackers from locking your files and asking for money to unlock them. The app is easy to install and use. Once it's installed, it runs in the background, protecting against viruses and malware. Its easy-to-use interface makes it simple to use and customize.

Features:

• Multi-Platform Support: Avast Security & Privacy works on different platforms, like Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. This lets you protect all your devices with one app.
• Avast SecureLine VPN: This feature makes your internet connection private, stopping ISPs from tracking what you do online and keeping your privacy while browsing.
• Avast Cleanup Premium: This tool makes your device work better by getting rid of junk files, unwanted programs, and bloatware. This frees up storage space and makes your system faster.
• Real-Time Intelligence: Using real-time information from its many users, Avast Security & Privacy finds and stops over 66 million threats every day.
• Secure Browsing Mode: Also known as Bank Mode, this feature hides your personal details while you're banking or shopping online.
• Compatibility with Avast Free Antivirus: This feature gives your device full protection.

7. Kaspersky Security & VPN

Best for: secure and private browsing with fast internet speeds.

Kaspersky Security & VPN is a comprehensive antivirus solution with robust security features and an integrated VPN service. It is made to give a safe and private way to browse the internet. It protects your personal information and keeps your privacy on all devices.

The program is known for its fast and reliable internet speeds. This helps users browse smoothly, download files, and shop online while staying anonymous. A special feature of Kaspersky VPN is that it lets users access content from all over the world. This feature lets users watch video content from certain areas. This gives them the freedom to watch their favorite shows and movies from anywhere.

Also, Kaspersky Security & VPN protects you when using public Wi-Fi networks. This feature makes sure your data is safe no matter where you are. It stops possible data leaks and keeps your IP address safe.

Features:

• Secure and Private Browsing: Kaspersky Security & VPN gives a safe and anonymous online experience. It protects your personal information and keeps your privacy on all devices.
• Fast Internet Speeds: Kaspersky VPN has over 2000 fast servers in more than 100 locations. This makes sure you always have a fast and reliable connection.
• Global Content Access: Kaspersky VPN lets you watch video content from certain areas. This gives you the freedom to watch your favorite shows and movies from anywhere.
• Public Wi-Fi Protection: Kaspersky VPN protects you when using public Wi-Fi networks. It makes sure your data is safe no matter where you are.
• Next-Level Privacy Features: Kaspersky VPN has advanced privacy features. These include keeping your IP address safe, stopping data leaks, and cutting off your internet connection if the VPN drops.
• Customization Options: Kaspersky VPN lets you change settings for specific apps, browsers, search engines, and email services.

8. Lookout Mobile Security

Best for: comprehensive antivirus protection on mobile devices.

Lookout Mobile Security offers robust antivirus protection for mobile devices. It is made to deal with the growing use of mobile apps in both personal and work situations.

This has led to more mobile security problems, like app threats and mobile phishing attacks. Lookout Mobile Security gives a single solution for data protection across desktops, laptops, and mobile devices.

This means there is no need for incomplete Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions or complicated products. This platform is special in the digital security area because it gives organizations strong protection against threats that may be hidden.

It understands the problems caused by changing work practices and gives a single viewpoint for data protection. This makes security management simpler. Lookout Mobile Security uses telemetry intelligence to protect devices from both known and unknown threats.

This allows for productivity and flexibility while reducing security risks.

Features:

• Comprehensive Antivirus Solution: Lookout Mobile Security gives a strong set of tools for antivirus protection on mobile devices. It deals with the problems caused by the growing use of mobile apps in personal and work situations.
• Unified Data Protection: The platform gives a single solution for data protection across desktops, laptops, and mobile devices. This means there is no need for multiple security solutions.
• Security Posture Control: Lookout Mobile Security helps organizations take control of their security and make sure they are following rules. It provides a single viewpoint for data protection.
• Complementary to MDM: The platform works with existing MDM solutions, giving extra layers of protection against phishing, app, and network threats.
• Telemetry Intelligence: Lookout Mobile Security uses telemetry intelligence to protect devices from both known and unknown threats. This allows for productivity and flexibility while reducing security risks.

9. Trend Micro Mobile Security

Best for: advanced security and privacy protection with cloud-based protection.

Trend Micro Mobile Security is an antivirus app providing robust security and privacy measures for mobile devices. It is made by Trend Micro, a company with almost 30 years of experience in security.

The app is made for Android and iOS devices. It protects against many threats like harmful apps, ransomware, dangerous websites, unsafe Wi-Fi networks, and unauthorized access to devices.

The app uses cloud-based Smart Protection Network™ and Mobile App Reputation technology. This helps stop threats before they reach the user's device. It also helps find harmful phishing emails and scam websites, which helps users avoid online scams and fraud.

The app can also make mobile devices work better. It has features that improve the performance of smartphones and tablets. For Android users, the app protects against loss, data theft, viruses, and online threats. It also has an option to make the mobile phone work better.

iOS users can automatically block harmful websites while browsing. They can also block ads, personal information trackers, and avoid unsafe Wi-Fi networks and using too much data.

The app also has a password manager. This lets users keep all their account names, website passwords, and other information in one secure place. The password manager can keep up to 5 passwords for free, which gives users more security.

For people who want protection for many devices, there is Trend Micro Maximum Security. This includes all the features of the password manager and more. It can block dangerous websites, protect privacy on social media, manage and encrypt passwords, protect kids online, guard against identity theft, tune up the system, and secure Android and iOS devices.

Features:

• Advanced Security and Privacy Protection: Protects against threats like harmful apps, ransomware, dangerous websites, and unsafe Wi-Fi networks.
• Cloud-Based Smart Protection Network™: Stops threats before they reach the device, helps avoid online scams and fraud.
• Device Performance Enhancement: Improves the performance of smartphones and tablets.
• Password Manager: Lets users keep all their account names, website passwords, and other information in one secure place.
• Multi-Device Protection: Protects many devices, with extra features for protecting privacy on social media, managing and encrypting passwords, and guarding against identity theft.

10. F-Secure SAFE

Best for: award-winning antivirus protection with parental control features.

F-Secure SAFE is a renowned antivirus app offering comprehensive online protection for various devices including Windows PCs, Macs, Android, and iOS devices. This strong app is made to protect against many online threats like malware, ransomware, spyware, and harmful email attachments. It helps devices work well by stopping system slowdowns often caused by harmful software, keeping the devices fast and safe.

Features:

• Award-Winning Antivirus Protection: Praised by independent testing groups for its ability to stop many online threats.
• Banking Protection: Makes online transactions safe by blocking unsafe apps and websites.
• Malware Protection: Protects against malware, ransomware, spyware, and harmful email attachments, keeping important data safe.
• Parental Control: Lets parents control screen time, filter content, and control app installations, making the digital environment safer for children.
• Multi-Platform Support: Works with different devices like Windows PCs, Macs, Android, and iOS devices, giving full protection across platforms.

11. ZoneAlarm Mobile Security

Best for: privacy-first approach and enterprise-grade technology.

ZoneAlarm Mobile Security is a potent security tool designed to shield mobile devices from serious online threats. It is made by Check Point, a top cybersecurity company. The app focuses on privacy, keeping users' private data safe from possible online attacks. It is designed to guard against phishing attacks, which helps keep users' email, social media, and financial accounts safe.

A special feature of ZoneAlarm Mobile Security is that it allows safe downloads and browsing. The app stops harmful apps before they can be installed and checks every link clicked on in real-time against Check Point ThreatCloud, the biggest cyber intelligence network in the world. This means users get immediate warnings if a link is found to be harmful.

Besides its strong security features, ZoneAlarm Mobile Security is made to not use up too much battery life or slow down the device, giving users a good experience without sacrificing safety. The app uses Check Point's high-level technology, which is trusted by Fortune 500 companies, to protect personal smartphones or tablets from all kinds of online threats. This multi-layered protection gives users peace of mind, knowing their devices are safe.

ZoneAlarm Mobile Security works with both iOS and Android devices, so users on different platforms can use its security features. As part of ZoneAlarm Extreme Security NextGen, ZoneAlarm Mobile Security provides full security across multiple devices. This combination gives complete protection for PCs and mobile devices, making sure users are safe no matter what device they use.

The app has gotten good reviews from experts in information security, like Steven Lentz, Director of Information Security at Samsung Research America. This helps show it is a reliable mobile security solution.

Features:

• Privacy-first Approach: Puts user privacy first and stops cybercriminals from getting sensitive information through phishing attacks.
• Safe Downloads and Browsing: Stops harmful apps before they're installed and checks clicked links in real-time against a big cyber intelligence network.
• Enterprise-grade Technology: Uses technology trusted by Fortune 500 companies to give multiple layers of protection against online threats.
• Compatibility and Integration: Works with iOS and Android devices and is combined with ZoneAlarm Extreme Security NextGen for full security on multiple devices.

12. Clario: Privacy & Security

Best for: secure VPN software and powerful antivirus protection.

Clario: Privacy & Security is a cybersecurity app that safeguards digital identities and devices from threats such as viruses, unsafe Wi-Fi, identity theft, and hacking. The app gives strong antivirus protection with a 100% virus detection rate, as confirmed by AV-TEST. It also keeps macOS, Windows, and Android devices safe.

A special feature of Clario is its unlimited VPN service, which is available for Mac, Windows, iPhone, and Android. This feature lets users unblock TV shows and ensures 100% traffic encryption, with a strict no-log policy.

Clario also has 24/7 data breach monitoring, which gives instant alerts and lets users scan emails to check for leaked passwords, social security numbers, or credit card details.

Clario also has instant ad blocking, which hides annoying pop-ups, banners, or autoplay videos that slow down browsing. This feature is available on Mac, Windows, and iOS.

Features:

• Secure VPN Software: Clario's VPN client hides your online data and gives strong encryption to protect your privacy. It lets you browse anonymously and safely on public Wi-Fi networks.
• Powerful Antivirus: Clario gives strong antivirus protection for your Mac, finding and removing malware to keep your system safe.
• Safe Browsing: The app has a feature that finds harmful or fraudulent sites, giving extra protection while you browse the internet.
• ID Theft Protection: Clario's ID theft protection feature quickly alerts you if your passwords leak, helping you take quick action to secure your accounts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)