Best antivirus for iPhone in 2025: tested by cybersecurity experts
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iPhones, like any other internet-connected device that uses apps and stores sensitive data, are vulnerable to viruses. These viruses can damage your iOS device and put your information at risk of being lost or corrupted. Fortunately, antivirus software can help protect against ransomware, phishing attacks, malicious ads, and even social engineering tactics.
However, it’s worth noting that iPhones don’t allow antivirus apps to perform full system scans because of Apple’s security setup, which keeps apps isolated. Instead, iOS security apps focus on things like phishing protection, Wi-Fi checks, and alerts for sketchy activity.
With the support of our research team, I tested both free and paid iPhone antivirus apps, comparing them to the built-in security features of Apple devices. My last best antivirus for iPhone recommendations are tailored to different types of users and scenarios, ensuring your iOS device gets the protection it needs.
Best antivirus for iPhone in 2025: shortlist
- TotalAV – best antivirus for iPhone overall in 2025
- Norton – user-friendly antivirus suite for iPhone
- Avira Antivirus – good free mobile security with a VPN
- Bitdefender Antivirus – feature-rich antivirus for iPhone
- AVG Antivirus – antivirus with excellent malware detection rates
Our team of researchers thoroughly tests antivirus software following a well-established testing process. In unison, our experts combine in-house and independent testing lab findings with first-hand experience to help you make informed decisions about each product. Learn how we test antivirus software.
Do iPhones need antivirus protection?
While iOS devices like iPhones and iPads are typically more secure thanks to strong built-in security features and strict app review procedures, they remain susceptible to targeted malicious hacking attempts and infected websites. That's why having trustworthy antivirus software on your iPhone is important.
These security apps offer features that help detect and block cyberthreats, ensuring your device remains safe. While regular updates to your iPhone’s operating system play a crucial role in maintaining its security, an added layer of antivirus protection ensures your data is safe.
A notable example is the fact that malicious hackers can get into your phone by simply sending an infected text message that the iPhone would automatically read. So, an antivirus is the only way to fully protect your iPhone.
An iPhone antivirus fills security gaps and helps prevent hacking, malware, and other cyberthreats. Hence, if you want your device to be fully protected and your sensitive information to be kept safe, antivirus software is the best way to achieve this.
The best iPhone antivirus of 2025: detailed list
To uncover the best iOS antivirus services for you to consider, together with the Cybernews research team, I analyzed 26 antivirus providers. To pick the best, I performed in-house tests and assessed features, security capabilities, pricing, customer support options, and other essential aspects.
1. TotalAV Mobile Security – best antivirus app for iPhone
| Free trial: | 7-day trial |
| App Store rating: | 4.6⭐ |
| Key features: | Breach Scan, WebShield, QR Code Checker |
| Current deal: | Get TotalAV, now 80% OFF |
TotalAV is my go-to antivirus. During our testing, I was impressed with how well TotalAV balanced keeping my iPhone safe without slowing it down.
For iOS users, it packs features like Breach Scan and Smart Scan. These tools give you a full health report on your device’s security, which is helpful if you want to stay ahead of any potential threats. I found that TotalAV did a great job at detecting and blocking viruses, all while making my iPhone run smoother. Honestly, it felt like my phone was getting a little tune-up every time I ran a scan.
Now, if you spend a lot of time browsing or worrying about sneaky websites and trackers, the premium plan is definitely worth considering. With WebShield, you get real-time protection that blocks harmful sites and keeps you safe from annoying social engineering tricks that are everywhere these days. Plus, you get a solid VPN with no data limits, which means you can securely surf the web without any worries.
TotalAV doesn’t just leave you hanging if you’re not ready to commit. It offers a free version on the Apple App Store that’s pretty solid for basic protection. But if you’re like me and want the full package, the premium version of TotalAV costs just $19.00/year. It has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so there’s no risk in giving it a shot.
TotalAV is a great choice for various users. If you’re constantly online, TotalAV is ideal for keeping your iPhone safe from harmful sites and hidden trackers. If you like privacy, you will appreciate the built-in VPN, which ensures your browsing stays private. For those worried about data breaches, the Breach Scan feature is essential for monitoring and protecting your personal information.
2. Norton Mobile Security for iOS – user-friendly iPhone antivirus
| Free trial: | 7-day trial |
| App Store rating: | 4.7⭐ |
| Key features: | Wi-Fi and device security tools, Privacy Monitor Assistant, Dark Web Monitoring |
| Current deal: | Get up to 58% OFF Norton Antivirus |
If you’re searching for a solid antivirus for your iPhone, Norton is definitely worth considering. It’s an excellent all-in-one security suite that’s super easy to use, even if you’re not tech-savvy.
When we tested Norton, I was impressed with how user-friendly it is. The app comes packed with helpful features that make it easy to stay protected. For instance, it filters out spam text messages that could be phishing attempts – so no more worrying about clicking on suspicious links by accident. It also keeps an eye out for unsecured Wi-Fi networks, which is great if you’re someone who’s always on the go and connecting to different hotspots. Plus, it automatically patches up any vulnerabilities on your device, so you’re not left exposed to potential threats.
One feature I really like is Safe Web. It stops you from visiting websites that could potentially be infected with malware. And if you’re concerned about your personal information getting leaked online, Norton’s Dark Web Monitoring sends live alerts if your data shows up where it shouldn’t.
While testing Norton, I found that it did an excellent job of protecting my iPhone without slowing it down. I also didn’t notice any lag or performance issues.
Another big win for Norton is that it comes with a built-in VPN. While it’s not available in some countries, this feature was one of the main reasons I picked Norton as a top choice for iPhone security. The VPN keeps your browsing private and secure, which is especially important if you’re using public Wi-Fi.
Price-wise, Norton is pretty reasonable at $14.99/year for iOS users. You also get a free 7-day trial and a 60-day money-back guarantee, so you have plenty of time to test it out and see if it’s right for you.
If you’re a someone who often connects to public Wi-Fi, Norton’s Wi-Fi security features keep your data safe. For privacy-conscious users, the built-in VPN and Dark Web Monitoring provide strong protection for your personal information, though it is not offered in all countries.
3. Avira – lightweight antivirus for iPhone with a free plan
| Free trial: | 60-day trial |
| App Store rating: | 4.2⭐ |
| Key features: | anti-theft tools, privacy manager, iOS updater |
| Current deal: | Get 1 year of Avira at 58% OFF |
If you’re looking for a lightweight yet powerful security app for your iPhone, Avira is definitely one to consider. What I love about Avira is that it offers a really solid free plan, making it a great option if you want reliable protection without spending a dime. Plus, it’s packed with features that you’d expect from top-tier iOS antiviruses, along with a few unique perks.
When I first tried out Avira, I was impressed by how minimalistic and clean the app is. It’s super easy to navigate, so you can quickly find the security features you need. For instance, its web protection tools do a great job of blocking phishing sites and keeping your browsing safe. Also, the anti-theft feature is a lifesaver. It lets you track your iPhone and even wipe the data remotely if it ever gets stolen.
Moreover, one feature that stood out was a tool that works alongside the iPhone’s call blocker. It’s incredibly handy for filtering out unwanted calls or annoying unsolicited ads, and it was so satisfying to see those numbers blocked automatically.
Avira also includes the Phantom VPN, which gives you 100MB of data protection per month for free. That’s not a lot, and if you need more data, you can easily upgrade to remove the cap.
As for pricing, Avira Antivirus starts at $26.99/year, which is pretty reasonable considering the features you get. There’s also a money-back guarantee – either 60 days or 14 days, depending on the plan – so you have some flexibility if you decide it’s not the right fit.
Avira is a great choice for several types of users. If you're budget-conscious, the free plan provides solid protection without any cost, making it perfect for those who want reliable security without spending much. Frequent travelers appreciate Avira’s anti-theft feature and Phantom VPN, which help secure your iPhone when you’re on the move.
4. Bitdefender – all-around antivirus for iOS
| Free trial: | 30-day trial |
| App Store rating: | 4.7⭐ |
| Key features: | Web Protection, built-in VPN, Account Privacy |
| Current deal: | Get Bitdefender for up to 78% OFF |
If you’re in the market for a solid antivirus solution for your iPhone, Bitdefender is definitely worth a look. It’s a reliable option, especially if you’re just looking for basic protection.
Even the free version of Bitdefender is pretty handy. It scans your network connections and blocks anything that seems off, which is great for basic security. But if you want the full experience, I recommend going for the premium version. Like TotalAV and Norton, Bitdefender includes a VPN, but with one major drawback – a 200MB daily data limit. This limitation is one of the reasons Bitdefender doesn’t quite match up to the other top solutions we’ve tested.
When we put it to the test for a full Bitdefender review, we noticed that the iOS version doesn’t quite stack up against its Android and desktop counterparts. That said, it still offers decent protection against cyberthreats, which might be all you need if you’re just looking for the essentials.
Bitdefender Mobile Security starts at $14.99/year, which is pretty reasonable. Plus, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee, so if you decide it’s not for you, you can get a refund within the first month.
Bitdefender is especially recommended for users who want straightforward, no-fuss protection without extra features. It’s also a good fit for light users who don’t need a lot of VPN data and for budget-conscious individuals who still want to stay secure online.
5. AVG – antivirus for iPhone with exceptional malware detection power
| Free trial: | 14-day free trial |
| App Store rating: | 4.7⭐ |
| Key features: | Identity Protection, Photo Vault, Wi-Fi Security, Secure Browsing |
| Current deal: | Get up to 60% OFF AVG! |
If you’re in the market for an iOS mobile security app that can protect your privacy, block unreliable websites, and keep an eye out for password breaches on your iPhone, AVG is definitely worth considering.
Even the free version of AVG offers solid basic protection. While the iOS version isn’t quite as feature-packed as the Android one, it still gives you access to key features like web protection, identity protection, and a photo vault to keep your sensitive photos safe. However, if you’re looking for unlimited identity protection and photo vault space, upgrading to the premium version is the way to go.
When we tested AVG, we found that it performed well in detecting and blocking threats without noticeably slowing down the iPhone. The premium version also includes a VPN, which adds another layer of privacy. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that the iOS version doesn’t come with a kill switch, which could be a dealbreaker for some users who prioritize that feature.
The pricing starts at $31.20/year for desktop users, but the good news is that iOS users can install and use the AVG mobile app for free. It’s a solid option if you want to start with basic protection and decide later if you wish to upgrade.
How to choose the best iPhone antivirus app
Choosing the best virus protection tool for your iPhone or iPad can feel overwhelming, but understanding the key features can make the process easier. When selecting the right antivirus app for your device, consider the following factors.
Start by reading reviews from trusted sources to get a sense of how well each app performs in real-world scenarios. It's also important to check compatibility to ensure the app works seamlessly with your specific iPhone or iPad model.
One crucial feature to look for is web protection. A good iPhone security app should block unreliable websites and protect your device, serving as your first line of defense against online threats.
If you frequently use public networks, Wi-Fi security is another must-have. The app should be able to scan Wi-Fi networks and ensure they are safe before you start browsing, using payment apps, opening sensitive documents, or even just chatting with friends.
While there are standalone ad blockers available, finding a security app with a built-in ad blocker offers extra protection. This feature can prevent unwanted ads and trackers from compromising your privacy.
A VPN is a significant bonus in any mobile security app. Not only does it unblock restricted content, but it also ensures your internet traffic is protected at all times, adding an extra layer of security.
Finally, consider whether the app includes a password manager. This feature goes beyond basic security by helping you securely store and manage your passwords, making it easier to maintain full protection for your personal information.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose an antivirus app that provides comprehensive security and fits your specific needs.
Other iPhone antiviruses we tested
In addition to the top choices, we also tested several other iPhone antiviruses that came close to making our list. Here’s a quick overview of three noteworthy contenders:
- Avast Mobile Security is known for its user-friendly interface and a solid range of features, including a photo vault, Wi-Fi security scanner, and identity protection. It also offers a VPN, making it a well-rounded choice for those seeking both security and privacy. However, the free version comes with frequent ads, which can be annoying, and many of the advanced features are locked behind a paywall, requiring users to upgrade to the premium version.
- McAfee Mobile Security is another good alternative for iPhone users, offering a free version. It comes with additions such as the System Scan feature for the latest updates, identity monitoring, and privacy protection tools. It also has a clean dashboard that conveniently puts all the important security tools where you need them. Unfortunately, scanning can get slow and resource-intensive, and its customer support took a while to get back to me.
- Malwarebytes Mobile Security provides protection against malicious links, blocks unwanted callers, and filters suspicious text messages. However, it falls short in comparison to other apps on this list due to its limited feature set – it doesn’t include a VPN or a photo vault, making it a better choice for users primarily interested in minimum protection without the extra features.
Comparison of the best antivirus apps for iOS
To make it easier to choose the right antivirus for your iPhone, here’s a quick recap of the apps we covered in this article:
| Antivirus app | System impact (background) | System impact (scans) | Firewall | Malicious URL blocking | Free version |
| 1. TotalAV | Very light | Heavy | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| 2. Norton | Light | Heavy | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| 3. Avira | Heavy | Heavy | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| 4. Bitdefender | Light | Light | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| 5. AVG | Light | Heavy | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
How we tested antivirus for iPhone
To choose only the best antivirus solutions for iOS, the Cybernews research team extensively researched and tested each antivirus provider. The antivirus software was tested on iPhone 12, iOS 17.2.1, evaluating the web protection features using a database of known phishing and malware links. Each software was tested by accessing 10 malicious links (urlhaus.abuse.ch and phishtank.org) and noting down the number of blocked websites.
It’s important to remember that iPhones don’t let antivirus apps run full system scans due to Apple’s security system, which isolates third-party apps. Because of this, our approach to these tests was somewhat limited but just as thorough. Here's a quick overview of the testing process:
- In-house testing (30%). For in-house testing, we focused on evaluating how well each antivirus handled web protection. We accessed 10 known malicious links from sources like urlhaus.abuse.ch and phishtank.org, specifically to test the antivirus’s ability to block phishing and malware sites.
- Independent lab tests (20%). We reviewed the latest independent lab test results from AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives to ensure that only the highest-rated antivirus solutions for iOS were considered. These ratings helped us select providers with proven performance, particularly in areas like real-time protection and web security.
- Performance (15%). During the testing, we also monitored the impact of each app’s performance on iPhone 12, including any changes in system speed and battery usage when the antivirus was running in the background or during scans.
- Security features (15%). We researched the extra security features each antivirus offers, such as anti-phishing protection and real-time web security, which are critical for safe browsing on iOS devices.
- Customer support (10%). We also evaluated the customer support options provided by each antivirus. Services offering 24/7 human support were prioritized, as this is an essential feature for users needing assistance with any security concerns on iOS.
- Ranking (10%). Based on our extensive research and testing, we ranked the antivirus solutions based on their effectiveness in web protection, malware detection, system performance, and customer support.
What security threats do iPhone users face?
Besides the usual threats that are inseparable from using any digital technology, there are some security risks that iPhone users might encounter:
- SMS hacks and scams. Phishing links can mask themselves using the well-known names of parcel delivery services, government agencies, or even telecom companies. Experienced hackers can also exploit the iPhone’s security scans of incoming links to infiltrate your device. A reliable antivirus could prevent the negative effects if your device has already been compromised.
- Spyware. Advanced spyware like Pegasus is designed to secretly monitor iPhone users, tracking everything from calls to messages and even activating the camera or microphone. While typically used for targeted attacks, this type of spyware poses a severe risk to privacy. An antivirus with real-time monitoring can help protect your device from such sophisticated threats.
- iPhishGuard. Specifically designed for iPhones, this phishing scam targets users with harmful emails and text messages to get user information. Luckily, good antiviruses will issue warnings before you enter any personal details that could be used against you.
- Malicious apps. While the Apple App Store has pretty good algorithms to remove suspicious apps, those that are better masked than others could still be downloaded by unsuspecting users and infect their phones. But if you have an antivirus on your iPhone, it could scan downloads and remove or quarantine threats.
How to set up antivirus on an iPhone
Installing an antivirus application on your iPhone or iPad is super easy. Just follow these steps, and your iOS device will be protected in no time:
- Go to the App Store and find the application you want. I recommend the top-rated TotalAV, now 80% OFF
- Download the app onto your iOS device and open it
- Sign in or create an account if you don't have one yet
- Follow the application instructions and finish setting up the app
- Enjoy full mobile security
What is iPhone antivirus, and do I need it?
An iPhone antivirus is a tool that protects your device from cyberthreats. Although the term iPhone antivirus isn’t exactly correct when discussing iOS mobile security, it's a catch-all term many users use when researching the best iPhone security apps.
However, iPhone doesn’t have a built-in virus scan, as viruses (a type of malware) do not really attack iOS devices. Also, a traditional antivirus simply wouldn't have the permission necessary to perform such crucial functions as full scans.
In short, when someone uses the term iPhone antivirus, they're most likely referring to an iOS security app capable of protecting against ransomware, phishing, malicious ads, and other cyberthreats.
Unfortunately, ransomware or malicious ads are actively targeting iOS users. Therefore, it is highly recommended that people employ trusted mobile security tools. An antivirus helps keep your device safe and your data protected. While iPhones are known for being very safe, they can still be affected by ransomware, phishing, and other forms of cyberthreats, which is why effective protection is important for any iPhone user.
Reliable virus protection apps for iPhone users include VPNs, password managers, and other helpful features that make them particularly useful in day-to-day use. My top choices include TotalAV, Norton, and Avira.
What is the best anti-spyware for iPhone?
The best antivirus software for iPhone must have an anti-spyware feature. It should protect your device from malicious apps and websites that track your activity and collect personal data about you to then sell to third parties. One of the best antiviruses that can effectively protect your device from spyware is TotalAV.
TotalAV’s well-rounded malware protection consistently performed well in our in-house and independent tests. Since it's Apple-compatible and offers a separate iPhone app, TotalAV is a great anti-spyware choice for your device.
What is the best iPhone malware protection app?
TotalAV is a top choice for iPhone users who are seeking an all-in-one security package.
It enhances device performance while effectively protecting against online threats with the help of features like Breach Scan and Smart Scan.
The premium TotalAV plan includes WebShield for real-time protection to help block harmful websites and prevent social engineering attacks, too. And the included VPN comes with no data caps.
The tool also offers features such as system security, data breach monitoring, QR code scanning, update alerts, and a way to manage photos, videos, and contacts on your device for iOS users.
Do I recommend a free antivirus for the iPhone?
No, I do not recommend free antivirus tools for iPhone users. While some are better than others, most free tools aren’t as feature-rich or secure as a paid subscription antivirus app.
On the other hand, you can also use free plans from premium antivirus services to test out if the tool meets your requirements before investing in a paid subscription. Luckily, most of the ones mentioned in our list above offer free plans.
For example, TotalAV’s free plan includes the Smart Scan tool for an additional layer of security, while photo, video, and contact management tools are included to optimize performance. Alternatively, you can go with Bitdefender for device scans, Wi-Fi security, a VPN, and a data leak scanner.
However, keep in mind that the free plan versions usually lack certain security features, such as a VPN and real-time or web protection, which prevent online threats from messing with your device.
If you want your device to be secured 24/7, pick a reliable iPhone antivirus provider that offers premium iOS security features, such as TotalAV.
Conclusion
Finding a good antivirus for iPhone or iPad isn’t all about high malware detection rates. Since the Apple ecosystem is mostly malware-free, antivirus apps must provide value in other ways. For example, the best iOS antivirus apps can optimize your device’s performance, block ads, enable VPN connections, and act as password managers.
My top pick for the best antivirus for iPhone is TotalAV. It offers the best and most effective features to strengthen your iOS device and includes extra additions to optimize your phone. Plus, it’s affordable and works with other devices and operating systems.
While TotalAV stands out for its comprehensive protection, other antiviruses on my list, like Norton and Avira, also offer excellent security options. Each has its own strengths, so it's worth exploring these alternatives to find the best fit for your needs.
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FAQ
Can iPhones get viruses from websites?
Yes, in addition to downloading infected apps and files (if you have removed iOS restrictions yourself), your iPhone can get a virus from visiting an unsafe website. That’s why it’s a good idea to use an antivirus app with real-time protection.
How can I scan my iPhone for viruses?
It's impossible to scan an iPhone mobile for malware, as due to security reasons, applications are not given those types of permissions. Nevertheless, you can use a robust iPhone antivirus, like TotalAV, that looks for threats on your device and doesn't allow any data breaches to happen.
Does Apple recommend antivirus for iPhone?
No, Apple does not recommend using antivirus apps for iPhones, and that’s because the company claims that viruses and malware shouldn’t be able to infect iPhones at all. Unfortunately, there are other cyberthreats that cancould attack your iOS device. Therefore, the use of mobile security apps, such as TotalAV, is strongly advised.
How do I check my iPhone for malware for free?
The only way to check your iPhone for malware for free is by downloading an iPhone-compatible antivirus app from a reliable security software provider. For example, Norton offers a 7-day free trial during which you can scan your device for malware and get it effectively removed.
How do I know if my iPhone has been hacked?
Strange pop-up messages, fast and unexplainable battery drain, or increased scam SMS occurrences could indicate that your device might be infected with malware. Getting an antivirus app, like TotalAV, can help you get rid of malware and detect security threats.
How do I remove spyware from my iPhone?
A reliable antivirus app for your iPhone, like TotalAV, can block and remove spyware from your device. Regular security checks and suspicious website warnings can also prevent future security incidents.
