Because Apple locks down the iOS ecosystem, traditional "antivirus" apps can't scan your iPhone for malware—because there usually isn't any. However, hackers have moved on to phishing texts (smishing), calendar spam, and rogue Wi-Fi networks. The best iOS security apps protect you against these real-world threats.
Quick Summary: Best Protection for iOS
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1Norton 360 Mobile Best SMS spam filtering and Wi-Fi security.
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2TotalAV for iPhone Excellent Smart Scan to clean up photos and update iOS.
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3McAfee Mobile Security System scan and "Safe Web" VPN included.
1. Norton 360 Mobile
Norton offers the most utility for iPhone users. Its SMS Security feature automatically detects and moves spam texts and phishing links to a "Junk" folder, keeping your Messages app clean.
It also includes a "Wi-Fi Security" monitor that alerts you if the network you're on attempts to intercept your traffic—common in hotels and airports.
- SMS Spam Filter
- Wi-Fi Security
- Dark Web Monitoring
- Secure Calendar
2. TotalAV for iPhone
TotalAV is less about "security" (though its WebShield is great) and more about maintenance. Its Smart Scan feature is brilliant—it finds duplicate photos, large videos, and old screenshots that are clogging up your iCloud storage.
It also checks if your iOS version is out of date and helps you locate your device if it goes missing.
- Photo Cleaner
- WebShield (Safari)
- Data Breach Check
- Battery Monitor
3. McAfee Mobile Security
McAfee is a solid all-rounder. The "System Scan" checks if your iPhone software is up to date and if you have a passcode set, ensuring basic hygiene.
The "Safe Web" VPN is included in most plans, offering unlimited data to encrypt your browsing on public networks.
- System Scan
- Wi-Fi Guard VPN
- Media Vault
- Contacts Backup
Do iPhones need Antivirus?
Technically, no. iOS sandboxing prevents apps from infecting each other. But you DO need security for: