Apple gadgets are known for having great security. That's because
Apple devices using iOS are built in a way that denies files access to
any system directories.
This
makes it impossible for Apple users to download third-party
applications. It can be inconvenient for users but Apple believes the
added security outweighs the inconvenience.
That leads some Apple
users to "jailbreak" their gadget. As you might know by now,
jailbreaking is a risky way of bypassing Apple's software restrictions
on iOS devices, allowing a user to install unauthorized apps and
services.
It is a practice that is highly discouraged by Apple
since it could lead to security holes that hackers could exploit. In
fact, several users have reported that their Facebook, PayPal, and
credit accounts were hacked after using jailbreaking tools.
How to detect an infected Apple device
If you did jailbreak your Apple gadget, here are some symptoms that it's infected with a virus:
- Data usage
- One thing you will notice if your gadget is infected with a virus is a
large increase in data usage. A virus can eat away at data so you
should compare the last few monthly statements from your cellphone
provider. If you notice a huge spike in data usage, there's a good
chance your gadget is infected.
- Crashing apps -
If you have a virus on your gadget, most likely apps will no longer
function properly. They will crash continually while you try using them.
- Pop-ups
- While surfing online with the Safari browser, you might see pop-up
ads all over the place. This could be the result of an infected gadget.
Continue reading and we'll tell you how to avoid and remove viruses.
How to update your iOS
Hackers
are always looking for ways to infiltrate our gadgets. That's why it's
important to keep your operating system up to date.
Whenever Apple discovers a vulnerability in iOS, it sends an update to patch it. Here are the steps to update your iOS:
Go into your "
Settings" app and select "
General." From there, select "
Software Update" and your device will begin to check for updates. Then select "
Download and Install."
To get the update from
iTunes, connect your device to a computer, open iTunes, and select your device from the menu in your
iTunes Library. Select "
Summary" and then click on "
Check for Update." Finally, select "
Download and Update" and wait for the update to sync to your device.
How to remove a virus
If
you suspect your iPhone or iPad may be infected with a virus, don't
panic. You can easily wipe your gadget and start over with factory
settings.
Here are the steps to wipe your Apple gadget:
- Backup your device and all of the personal data on it using iCloud or iTunes - Click here for detailed steps to backing up your smartphone.
- Go to Settings >> Tap General >> Tap Reset.
- Tap "Erase All Content and Settings" to clear all apps and data from the gadget.
- Restart your device and go through the initial setup steps again.
- Sync into iCloud when you set up your device and restore your backed up data.
Watch this quick video to walk you through the steps:
You
can also attach your iPhone or iPad to your computer and use the
"Restore iPhone/iPad" button in iTunes to factory-reset the device. The
key to these steps is they clear out all programs on your iOS device,
which may have been compromised, and replace them with fresh copies.
Your data and files should all be preserved, though you might lose some
application settings.
If you suspect that restoring your phone to
factory settings didn't do the trick, then feel free to take the gadget
to Apple's Genius Bar. They have system-scanning software that detects
and removes any hidden files.
