Securing your iPhone from hackers is more crucial than you might think. Many iPhone users believe they’re immune to viruses and other cyber threats. However, the truth is that they’re not entirely invulnerable despite Apple’s ongoing efforts to make their devices entirely secure.
Hackers are crafty—they can exploit gaps in the iOS operating system or within third-party apps to sneak into your device. From malware and spyware to adware, there are many ways they can infiltrate your device and cause havoc.
Once they’re in, they can swipe personal data or quietly install malicious software without your knowledge.
In this article, we’ll help you pinpoint the red flags indicating your iPhone might have been compromised. Plus, we’ll provide you with practical steps you can take to prevent such hacks from happening in the first place.
How to know if your iPhone is hacked
There are many ways to know when your iPhone has been hacked. In most cases, your iPhone behaves in an unusual, strange way that raises suspicion. Below are ways on how to check if your phone is being tracked and prevent further cyber threats
1. Unusual data usage
Have you ever checked your data usage only to discover it’s skyrocketed without any logical explanation? If your iPhone has been using data excessively and you haven’t been binge-watching or streaming more than usual, it could signal the presence of a hacker.
2. Mysterious apps and pop-ups
If you spot apps on your iPhone that you didn’t install or irritating pop-ups when browsing, someone might’ve been tampering with your digital space without your permission. It could be the work of a hacker trying to infiltrate your device remotely.
3. Overheating and battery drainage
Your iPhone battery draining faster than usual could only mean one thing—working overtime in the background. Overheating and quick battery drainage might hint at some suspicious processes orchestrated by a third party.
4. Apple ID lockout
You may have received a notification saying your Apple ID was used on an unfamiliar device. On top of that, there could be sudden changes to your Apple ID or password without your knowledge. All these are glaring red flags indicating multiple hacking attempts.
5. iPhone performance takes a nosedive
Ever felt like your iPhone has hit a speed bump? Hackers often use tactics like malware to get through your phone, causing it to slow down. If your iPhone’s performance suddenly reduces, making simple tasks like web browsing sluggish, there might be more than meets the eye.
Ways to protect your iPhone from hacking
Hackers use numerous ways to get into your iPhone. But this doesn’t mean you can’t stop them. The tips shared below will help you protect your device and personal information, minimizing the risk of cybersecurity attacks such as hacking.
Let’s explore them in detail!
1. Create a strong passcode
Your passcode is the guardian of your iPhone’s secrets and all the information kept inside. So, using simple and easily guessable passwords such as“1234″ or “0000” only invites hackers to do what they excel at.
To avoid any risks, revert to a strong 6-digit passcode that’s easy for you to remember but tough for them to crack. The fact is accidents happen, and losing your iPhone shouldn’t mean compromising your privacy.
2. Keep your iPhone regularly updated
Updating your iPhone is like giving it a health check. It’s not just about fixing bugs; it’s about getting cool new features while ensuring your security. Apple takes your safety seriously, so their updates often come with beefed-up security patches.
Keep your iPhone updated regularly to protect it from any potential hacking attempts. If you’re not sure about your iPhone’s update status,
Go to Settings.
Click General.
Select software updates to stay on top of things.
3. Trim auto-lock time
Setting your iPhone’s auto-lock time as never is akin to leaving your front door wide open for anyone to come in. It allows hackers to access your device and carry out their malicious activities.
Sure, it’s convenient to have a longer duration before your screen locks, but it’s a security risk, especially when you’re out and about. Set it to 1 minute or even 30 seconds to keep prying eyes or sneaky hackers away.
4. Bypass autofill
AutoFill in Safari is one of the security weak links that could let hackers into your iPhone. It conveniently memorizes your credit card info, contact details, and passwords. As such, if someone hackers gain access to your iPhone, they’ll have all they need to wreak havoc.
Always turn off AutoFill to protect your accounts and personal data.
5. Avoid clicking on suspicious links
We all experience that itch to click on an intriguing link we’ve received. However, this could cause trouble sometimes. Hackers send seemingly innocent links that, once clicked, could compromise your data safety and security.
That’s why it’s advisable to remain cautious and avoid clicking on unknown or suspicious links.
6. Activate two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an extra security layer on your iPhone that prevents unauthorized access. With 2FA, even if a hacker manages to get your password, they’ll still need access to one of your Apple devices to break in.
Here is how to activate 2FA on your iPhone:
Go to Settings.
Select [Your Name].
Click on Password & Security.
Tap on Two-Factor Authentication.
7. Avoid third-party apps and jailbreaking
Jailbreaking your iPhone removes its protective shield and weakens the overall security in place. Once jailbroken, hackers have a much easier time snooping into your data and carrying out their malicious activities.
Also, are those third-party apps outside Apple’s App Store? They might seem harmless, but they can be a playground for hackers to sneak in malware or spyware. Always stick to the App Store’s safety net and download apps from there to stay safe.
8. Silence Siri on the lock screen
Siri, your digital assistant, can sometimes be too helpful for your own good. In older iOS versions like iOS 11 and below, Siri could be a loophole for hackers to slip through the lock screen and access your data without needing a passcode or Touch ID.
Disabling Siri on the lock screen is a smart move to keep potential hacking attempts at bay.
9. Use a VPN and avoid Public Wi-Fi risks
Using a Virtual Private Network hides your IP address from prying eyes. It hides your real IP address and secures your online activity with high-level encryption. As such, it’s much harder for hackers to intercept your valuable data.
However, even with a VPN, tread carefully on public Wi-Fi networks. They’re like public squares where anyone can eavesdrop on your data. Stick to your mobile data for sensitive activities like banking to stay safe from potential snoopers.
10. Get rid of location tracking permissions
Allowing apps to track your location can be a privacy nightmare. You can follow the steps shared below to avoid this on your iPhone:
Go to Settings.
Select Privacy & Security.
Choose Location Services.
Review each app’s permissions and turn off location tracking for any app you don’t completely trust. Additionally, to minimize future prompts for app tracking, turn off the option to Allow Apps to Request to Track.
Final thoughts
Your iPhone is like a vault with crucial and valuable information. One carelessness could lead to potential security risks by allowing hackers easy access. Remember that keeping your digital life safe is a constant game of defense against cunning hackers.
So, by employing the tricks and tips we’ve shared above, you’re on your way to securing your iPhone and keeping it guarded against the lurking cyber threats of the digital space!