• Why iPhone security matters
  • Step-by-step guide to securing your iPhone
  • Extra tips to improve your iPhone privacy
  • What to do if you suspect your iPhone has been hacked
  • FAQ: Common questions about iPhone security
  • Why iPhone security matters
  • Step-by-step guide to securing your iPhone
  • Extra tips to improve your iPhone privacy
  • What to do if you suspect your iPhone has been hacked
  • FAQ: Common questions about iPhone security

How to secure your iPhone from hackers before it’s too late

Tips & tricks 27.06.2025 17 mins
Jennifer Pelegrin
Written by Jennifer Pelegrin
Katarina Glamoslija
Reviewed by Katarina Glamoslija
Kate Davidson
Edited by Kate Davidson
How to secure your iPhone from hackers before it’s too late

iPhones have a strong reputation for security, but that doesn’t mean they’re hack-proof. Like any connected device, they can still be targeted through phishing attempts, malicious apps, unsecured Wi-Fi, or weak account settings. Many users assume the default protections are enough—until something goes wrong.

As iPhones store more personal and financial information than ever, taking a few minutes to strengthen your iPhone security settings is no longer optional. Whether it’s adjusting app permissions, enabling two-factor authentication, or simply knowing what to watch for, these small changes can make a big difference.

This guide shows you how to secure your iPhone using expert tips and Apple’s built-in tools. You’ll also learn how to spot warning signs of a hack and what to do if your phone is compromised.

Why iPhone security matters

iPhones come with strong built-in protections, but that doesn’t mean they’re completely safe. Cybercriminals can still trick users with phishing links, take advantage of weak passwords, or exploit outdated software to gain access.

Most security risks come from small things, like using public Wi-Fi without a reliable VPN or giving apps more access than they need. Taking a few minutes to adjust your settings can help stop these threats and keep your data private.

Are iPhones safe from hackers?

iPhones are built with strong security features, and Apple does a good job of keeping tight control over its software and App Store. That makes iPhones safer than many other devices, but not unhackable.

Cybercriminals can still find ways in, especially through phishing links, fake apps, or sketchy profiles that trick users into giving access. In most cases, it’s not the iPhone itself that’s the problem—it’s how the user sets it up or uses it. Things like skipping software updates, using weak passwords, or clicking on suspicious messages can open the door to an attack.

So yes, iPhones are secure by design, but that only goes so far. Staying safe means using the tools Apple provides and paying attention to how you use your device day-to-day.

What hackers can access if your phone is compromised

If a cybercriminal manages to compromise your iPhone, the amount of data they can access may be more than you expect. Messages, call logs, contacts, and photos can all be exposed, along with your browsing history and social media accounts. In some cases, spyware can also track your real-time location and even access your microphone or camera without your knowledge.

If your Apple ID is part of the breach, synced data like iCloud backups, emails, and stored files may also be at risk. Some forms of spyware can even monitor what you do on your device, reading texts, seeing app activity, or intercepting login credentials. That kind of access can quickly lead to stolen accounts, financial loss, or identity theft.

Common iPhone security mistakes

Some iPhone users are more exposed to risks because of how they use their devices. You should pay extra attention to your iPhone’s security if you:

  • Jailbreak your device: This removes Apple’s built-in protections and makes it easier for malware to get in. Jailbreaking is not recommended, as it weakens the security of your iPhone and exposes it to serious risks.
  • Ignore iOS updates: Skipping updates leaves your phone open to known vulnerabilities.
  • Download apps from outside the App Store: These apps haven’t been vetted and could contain hidden threats.
  • Use public Wi-Fi without a VPN: Cybercriminals can intercept your data on unsecured networks.
  • Share too much personal info online: The more you reveal, the easier it is to be targeted.

Step-by-step guide to securing your iPhone

Securing your iPhone doesn’t have to be complicated. Most of the tools you need are already built in. This guide will show you easy steps you can take right now to protect your data and keep your device safe.

1. Set a strong alphanumeric passcode

A simple 4- or 6-digit code is easy to guess or crack, especially if someone gets hold of your phone. Switching to an alphanumeric passcode makes your device much harder to access.

Here’s how to set one:

  1. Go to Settings and tap Face ID & Passcode.iPhone Settings showing Face ID & Passcode menu for security configuration
  2. Enter your current passcode and tap Change Passcode.iPhone Face ID & Passcode settings with Change Passcode option selected
  3. Enter your current passcode again.Enter iPhone passcode screen for security setup
  4. Tap Passcode Options.iPhone screen showing Passcode Options during new passcode setup
  5. Choose Custom Alphanumeric Code and create a new passcode using a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Re-enter it to confirm.iPhone screen showing Custom Alphanumeric Code option for passcode setup

Just keep in mind that a longer, more complex passcode can be harder to remember. Consider storing it securely using a tool like ExpressVPN Keys, which supports encrypted notes as well as safely storing all your logins.

2. Enable Face ID

Adding Face ID enhances your iPhone's security because it uses your biometric information to unlock your device, authorize purchases, and sign into apps. Here’s how to set it up:

  1. Open Settings and tap Face ID & Passcode.iPhone Settings showing Face ID & Passcode menu for security configuration
  2. Enter your passcode.Enter iPhone passcode screen for security setup
  3. If Face ID isn’t set up yet, tap Set Up Face ID and follow the steps to scan your face.iOS screen showing Face ID & Passcode options.

If Face ID is already set up, you won’t see the setup option again. Instead, you’ll see settings for what Face ID is used for and the option to reset it.

3. Turn on two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication helps protect your Apple ID by requiring a code in addition to your password when you sign in.

To turn it on:

  1. Open Settings and tap your name at the top of the screen.iOS screen showing option to select your profile.
  2. Tap Sign-In & Security.Apple ID settings with Sign-In & Security option selected on iPhone
  3. Tap on Two-Factor Authentication and turn it on.iPhone screen with Two-Factor Authentication option in Sign-In & Security

4. Keep iOS and apps updated

Software updates aren’t just about new features—they often fix security issues that could leave your iPhone vulnerable. Keeping both iOS and your apps up to date is one of the simplest ways to stay protected.

To update your apps manually:

  1. Open the App Store and tap your profile picture at the top right.iPhone App Store screen showing access to account updates
  2. Scroll to see available updates and tap Update All or update apps one by one.iPhone App Store account page with Update All apps option selected

To update iOS manually:

    1. Open Settings and select General.iPhone Settings screen with General option highlighted for software update
    2. Go to Software Update.Phone General settings with Software Update highlighted
    3. If an update is available, tap Update Now and install it.OS 18.5 update screen on iPhone with Update Now option
    4. If you want to keep it automatic, make sure Automatic Updates is switched on.iPhone Software Update screen with Automatic Updates option highlighted

5. Use Find My iPhone and enable “Erase Data”

Losing your iPhone doesn’t have to mean losing your data. Apple’s Find My iPhone feature helps you locate your device if it’s lost or stolen and lets you erase it remotely to keep your information safe.

To make sure it’s turned on:

  1. Go to your account and select Find My.iPhone Apple ID settings showing Find My option to access device tracking features
  2. Make sure Find My iPhone, Find My network, and Send Last Location are enabled.Find My iPhone, Find My network, and Send Last Location toggles all enabled on iPhone.

You can also add an extra safeguard: erase data after 10 failed passcode attempts. This means that if someone tries to guess your code and fails too many times, your iPhone will automatically wipe all its data.

To enable it:

  1. Go to Settings and tap Face ID & Passcode.iPhone Settings showing Face ID & Passcode menu for security configuration
  2. Enter your passcode.Enter iPhone passcode screen for security setup
  3. Scroll down and turn on Erase Data.iOS screen showing Erase Data option.
  4. Then tap Enable.iOS screen showing how to enable Erase Data.

6. Review and limit app permissions

Your iPhone allows you to control which apps have access to your personal information, such as your location, contacts, photos, microphone, and more. Regularly reviewing these permissions helps protect your privacy and ensures that apps only access information necessary for their functionality.

To review and adjust app permissions:

  1. Open Settings, then tap Privacy & Security.iPhone Settings screen showing the Privacy & Security option.
  2. Tap on an app to change its permission settings.Privacy & Security settings on iPhone with access controls for apps like Location, Camera, and Contacts.

To monitor how apps use the permissions you've granted:

  1. Go to Settings and tap Privacy & Security.iPhone Settings screen showing the Privacy & Security option.
  2. Select App Privacy Report and tap Turn On App Privacy Report.iPhone screen showing the option to turn on App Privacy Report in Settings.

Once it’s turned on, the App Privacy Report shows which apps access things like your location, camera, and microphone, and which websites they contact most often.

7. Disable Lock Screen access to Siri and notifications

Your iPhone’s Lock Screen is meant to give you quick access to useful tools, but some of those shortcuts can also be security risks. If someone gets hold of your phone, they could interact with Siri or view sensitive notifications without needing your passcode.

To tighten your security, you can turn off access to Siri and the Notification Center from the Lock Screen:

  1. Open Settings, then tap Face ID & Passcode.iPhone Settings showing Face ID & Passcode menu for security configuration
  2. Enter your passcode.Enter iPhone passcode screen for security setup
  3. Scroll down to Allow Access When Locked, and turn off Siri and Notification Center.Disable Siri and notifications on iPhone Lock Screen.

8. Turn on USB Restricted Mode

To help protect your data, your iPhone can block USB accessories from connecting when your device has been locked for over an hour. This feature, known as USB Restricted Mode, adds an extra layer of security, especially if your iPhone is lost or stolen.

To check or enable it:

  1. Go to Settings, then tap Face ID & Passcode.
    iPhone Settings showing Face ID & Passcode menu for security configuration
  2. Enter your passcode.Enter iPhone passcode screen for security setup
  3. Scroll to Accessories and make sure the switch is off—this means USB Restricted Mode is on.iOS screen showing Accessories option.

9. Turn off automatic Wi-Fi connections

By default, your iPhone will automatically join known Wi-Fi networks. While convenient, this can be risky on public or unsecured networks. To turn it off:

  1. Go to Settings, then tap Wi-Fi.Wi-Fi settings screen on iPhone with connected network highlighted.
  2. Tap the info icon (i) next to the network you want to stop auto-joining.iPhone Wi-Fi settings with selected network info icon
  3. Toggle Auto-Join off.iPhone Wi-Fi network settings with Auto-Join turned off

10. Use a VPN on public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient but can be risky, especially if they’re open—cybercriminals can intercept your data if you’re not protected. A VPN encrypts your connection, keeping all your personal info safe while it’s in transit.

ExpressVPN’s iPhone app makes it easy to stay safe—just open the app, connect to a server, and you’re protected in seconds.

11. Avoid jailbreaking your device

Apple designs iOS to be secure and stable, and regular updates help keep it that way. Jailbreaking removes built-in protections and can stop your iPhone from receiving important security updates. That leaves your data more exposed to risks like malware, app misuse, or system crashes.

The best way to keep your iPhone protected is simple: stick with official iOS updates and avoid any tools or modifications that bypass Apple’s security.

12. Be careful with public charging stations

Researchers have shown that some public iPhone chargers can be compromised. If your device is unlocked and you plug it into one of these chargers, even briefly, malicious apps could be installed without your knowledge.

Once installed, these apps may be able to access sensitive information, intercept calls, and even take control of your device.

To protect yourself, avoid using public USB charging stations. Stick to your own charger and power adapter whenever possible.

13. Be cautious with links and unknown messages

Cybercriminals can send fake messages that look completely legitimate, sometimes by text, email, or via messaging apps. These messages might try to get you to tap a link or share something sensitive without realizing it, and they could contain malware.

If a message feels off, don’t click anything—just delete it. And if you’re not sure, here’s a quick guide to spotting and avoiding phishing attacks. For an extra layer of safety, ExpressVPN’s Advanced Protection tools can help block malicious links before you get the chance to open them.

Extra tips to improve your iPhone privacy

There are a few extra privacy settings worth checking if you want more control over your privacy. They don’t take long to adjust, but they can make a real difference in what your iPhone shares and with whom.

Revoke location tracking where not needed

Not every app needs to know where you are. To check which ones have access:

  1. Go to Settings, then tap Privacy & Security.iPhone Settings screen showing the Privacy & Security option.
  2. Tap Location Services.iPhone Privacy & Security settings screen
  3. Tap any app to adjust when it can access that info or turn it off completely.Manage iPhone app location permissions

If you want to share only your general location (not your exact spot), you can also turn off Precise Location for specific apps once you click on any of them.Disable precise location for iPhone apps

Clean up unused apps and services

Unused apps can take up storage without you realizing it, and more importantly, they can introduce potential security risks if they’re outdated or no longer supported.

To delete or offload apps manually:

  1. Go to Settings and tap General.iPhone Settings screen with General option highlighted for software update
  2. Tap iPhone Storage.iPhone General settings with iPhone Storage highlighted.
  3. Scroll through the list of apps.iPhone Storage screen showing options to offload or delete unused apps
  4. Tap any app to see its storage details, and choose Offload App (keeps documents and data) or Delete App (removes everything).App details screen with Offload and Delete options for WhatsApp.

Secure iCloud account settings

Advanced Data Protection adds an extra layer of security to iCloud by using end-to-end encryption for more of your data, like photos, notes, and iCloud backups. It's not turned on by default, but it only takes a few steps to enable it.

To turn it on:

  1. Go to Settings, then tap your name at the top.iOS screen showing option to select your profile.
  2. Tap iCloud.iPhone Settings showing Apple ID screen with iCloud option highlighted
  3. Tap on Advanced Data Protection.iCloud settings screen on iPhone with Advanced Data Protection option highlighted
  4. Follow the prompts to set up a recovery method—either a recovery contact or a recovery key.Enable Advanced Data Protection in iCloud settings on iPhone.
  5. Once that’s done, tap Turn On Advanced Data Protection.iOS screen showing option to Turn On Advanced Data Protection.

Use privacy-focused apps and browsers

Some apps collect far more data than they need, often without making it obvious. If you want to reduce tracking, switching to privacy-focused alternatives is one of the simplest changes you can make.

Apps like Signal or Telegram offer secure messaging without tying your data to big tech platforms. But you don’t always need to switch—Apple’s own apps like iMessage are also strong privacy choices.

For email, ProtonMail is a good option if you want end-to-end encryption and less data collection. And when it comes to browsing, choosing a privacy-first browser makes a big difference. This guide to the best private browsers compares options like Brave, LibreWolf, and Tor Browser—all designed to minimize tracking and protect your data.

You don’t need to change everything overnight, but using apps that collect less data helps to protect your privacy in the long run.

What to do if you suspect your iPhone has been hacked

If something feels off with your iPhone, like unusual activity on your account or devices you don’t recognize appearing under your Apple ID, it’s important to act fast. This section walks you through how to spot the signs and what to do to secure your device.

Warning signs of a compromised iPhone

Be alert for the following indicators that may suggest unauthorized access to your Apple account:

  • Unexpected password changes: Receiving notifications that your Apple ID password has been altered without your initiation.
  • Unrecognized devices: Seeing devices you don't own listed under your Apple ID.
  • Strange account activity: Observing unfamiliar changes to your personal or security information on your Apple Account.
  • Unusual messages: Getting emails or messages about account activities you didn't perform.
  • Inability to sign in: Being locked out of your Apple account or finding that you’re unable to access certain services.

Check for unauthorized access to your Apple ID

If you think someone else may have access to your Apple ID or iPhone, follow these steps:

  1. Go to your profile and scroll down to see all devices signed in with your Apple ID.View of Apple ID account settings showing linked devices and services.
  2. If you see one that you don’t recognize, tap it and select Remove from Account. Then, change your Apple ID password to prevent further access.Remove unknown device from Apple ID under Device Info settings.

Recovery steps to take immediately

If you think someone has access to your Apple ID, don’t wait. Here’s what you need to do right away:

  1. Go to your profile and tap Sign-In & Security.
  2. Tap Change Password and update your password to lock out anyone else using your account.
  3. If you haven’t already, review the list of devices linked to your Apple ID and remove anything you don’t recognize.View of Apple ID account settings showing linked devices and services.
  4. Check if two-factor authentication is on, as it adds an extra layer of protection. You can find it under Sign-In & Security.iPhone screen with Two-Factor Authentication option in Sign-In & Security
  5. If you can’t sign in or need help regaining control of your account, get in touch with Apple Support directly. They’ll guide you through account recovery.

FAQ: Common questions about iPhone security

How do I completely secure my iPhone?

The best way to secure your iPhone is by turning on Advanced Data Protection, using two-factor authentication, and sticking with trusted apps. It also helps to review your location settings and delete anything you don’t use.

How do I stop someone from accessing my iPhone?

Start by setting a strong passcode and turning on Face ID or Touch ID. Then make sure two-factor authentication is on and remove any devices you don’t recognize from your Apple ID.

Is the iPhone protected from hackers?

iPhones have strong built-in security, but no device is fully immune. To stay protected, it’s important to keep your iPhone updated, use a passcode, enable two-factor authentication, and avoid risky habits like jailbreaking.

Can I scan my iPhone for hackers?

There’s no built-in scanner, but you can still check for anything suspicious. Look at the devices signed in to your Apple ID, remove anything you don’t recognize, and make sure your settings and apps look right. If something feels off, change your password right away.

Does Apple have built-in antivirus?

iPhones don’t have antivirus like computers do, but Apple’s built-in protections, like sandboxing, App Store review, and system updates, help block most threats. These are usually enough unless the device is jailbroken or you fall for a phishing attempt, which can bypass those layers of security.

Can someone access my iPhone remotely?

It’s unlikely if your iPhone is updated and not jailbroken. But if someone gets your Apple ID and password, they could access your account or data from another device. That’s why it’s important to use two-factor authentication, check for unknown devices, and remove anything you don’t recognize.

Is iPhone more secure than Android?

Generally, yes. Apple controls both the hardware and software, so iPhones get regular security updates and only allow you to download apps through the App Store. That makes it harder for malware to slip through. Android is more open, which gives users more freedom but also means a higher risk if updates aren’t installed or apps come from untrusted sources.

How often should I update my iPhone?

As soon as a new update is available. Apple releases updates to patch security issues and keep your device protected, so it’s best not to wait. Turn on automatic updates to stay covered without having to check manually.

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Jennifer Pelegrin

Jennifer Pelegrin

Jennifer Pelegrin is a writer at the ExpressVPN Blog, where she creates clear, engaging content on digital privacy, cybersecurity, and technology. With experience in UX writing, SEO, and technical content, she specializes in breaking down complex topics for a wider audience. Before joining ExpressVPN, she worked with global brands across different industries, bringing an international perspective to her writing. When she’s not working, she’s traveling, exploring new cultures, or spending time with her cat, who occasionally supervises her writing.

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