Below, we show you some of the most common risks you face, and how to protect your iPhone from them.
Always keep your iPhone updated
Software updates may seem like a hassle, especially when you have to leave your device untouched for a while to install them, but are essential to keep your iPhone protected. Every new iOS update contains security patches that fix serious vulnerabilities.
For example, iOS version 14.7.1, from 2021, addressed the threat of Pegasus spyware, which allowed users to access messages, activate the camera and microphone, and collect location data. Don’t underestimate the importance of keeping your device up to date, as skipping an update will you can leave your iPhone exposed to threats that could be easily avoided.
Hide your passwords
It’s tempting to unlock your iPhone with your pin code in public, but this can be dangerous. It is preferable that you use Face ID or Touch IDunless you have an iPhone prior to the sixth generation and you have to unlock it with the code.
Shoulder surfing is a technique that thieves use to spy on your PIN code when you enter it, allowing them to access your device. Apple has improved security with features like stolen device protection in iOS 17.3, which slows down the process of changing Apple account passwords and Face ID settings without biometric authentication.
In addition, iOS 18.1 has incorporated a automatic restart after periods of inactivity, making it difficult to guess your PIN. Make sure you use a complex PIN and, where possible, use Face ID or Touch ID to keep your device secure.
Protect your iPhone from attacks
Avoid malicious profiles and phishing attacks, two common threats for iPhone users. Cybercriminals can trick you with fake emails or links that ask you to install configuration profiles, which puts the security of your device at risk. Additionally, phishing attacks can steal your Apple ID and iCloud access. To protect yourself, never install profiles from untrustworthy sources and be wary of suspicious links, always verifying the authenticity of messages before clicking on them.
Protect your SIM from SIM swapping attacks, a scam in which criminals transfer your phone number to a SIM they control. This allows them to intercept calls, messages and authentication codes, accessing your accounts and stealing personal information. To protect yourself, set a PIN or password with your carrier and use two-factor authentication (2FA) and authentication apps.
Is it worth jailbreaking?
Jailbreaking your iPhone may seem like a fun way to personalize your device, but this process removes the security features built into iOS, making it much more vulnerable to malware and attacks. Although almost in the middle of 2025 this question should not be on our minds, if you have an old iPhone, The answer is no, don’t do it.
Additionally, jailbroken devices often lose security updates, further increasing the risk. Before jailbreaking, consider the dangers involved: the possibility of infecting your device with malware and putting your personal information at risk.