What to do if your iPhone is compromised

iPhones are hard to hack directly, so a hacked phone usually means an account has been broken into or a scam profile has been installed. Either way, a few clear steps put you back in control.

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CE: Malware ProtectionModerate

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The signs

Watch for pop-ups you can't get rid of, apps or a configuration profile you didn't install, your Apple Account signing you out, rapid battery drain, or friends getting messages you didn't send.

The first steps

Work through these in order:

Update iOS. Install any waiting update, which closes known security holes.
Change your Apple Account password and your email password, and turn on two-factor. Do this from the phone if you still control it, or another device if not.
Check for unknown profiles under Settings, then General, then VPN & Device Management. If there's a profile you don't recognise, remove it.
Review your Apple Account devices (Settings, then your name) and remove any you don't recognise.

4 steps

If it continues

If problems persist, back up your photos and messages, then erase the iPhone (Settings, then General, then Transfer or Reset iPhone, then Erase All Content and Settings) and set it up fresh. A clean start removes anything lingering. If money was involved, contact your bank, and see the National Cyber Security Centre's guidance at ncsc.gov.uk.

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