The 3 Best Antivirus for iPhone & iPad (2026 Update)

Norton Mobile Security for iOS Review

Norton Mobile Security for iOS stands out as the best cybersecurity app for iPhone and iPad. In our hands-on testing, we found that it delivers comprehensive protection through multiple layers of privacy, identity, and device security.

• Unlimited VPN: Safeguards your privacy by encrypting your internet traffic and masking your IP address.
• Ad Tracker Blocker: Prevents advertisers from following your browsing habits.
• Web Protection: Blocks access to malicious websites across all browsers.
• Identity Protection: Monitors the Dark Web for your personal information.
• Device Protection: Alerts you about critical iOS security updates.

In summary, Norton significantly enhances online safety while protecting your privacy and identity. It remains our top choice for iOS security in 2023.

VPN – Unlimited, Encrypted, and Effortless

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) conceals your iPhone’s IP address and encrypts your data, offering several key benefits:

• Complete Online Anonymity: Your internet activity becomes invisible to ISPs, advertisers, governments, and hackers. You can browse, shop, and communicate in privacy.
• Public Wi-Fi Safety: On unsecured networks, encryption prevents others—including cybercriminals—from spying on your data.
• Bypass Censorship: Access websites and services blocked in certain regions, such as WhatsApp calls in Dubai or YouTube in China.

What sets Norton’s Secure VPN apart is its unlimited data allowance. Competing apps often cap usage between 200–500 MB per day, forcing you to manage the VPN manually. With Norton, you can keep it on permanently, maintaining continuous protection and anonymity.

Ad Tracker Blocking

Norton’s Ad Tracker operates alongside the VPN, blocking tracking cookies and scripts that follow you across websites. Once enabled, advertisers can no longer build detailed profiles of your browsing behavior.

Web Protection

During testing, Norton’s Web Protection effectively detected and blocked phishing pages and malicious sites before they could load. It functions with all major iOS browsers and can run independently of the VPN, though we recommend enabling both for maximum defense against online threats.

Identity Protection

The Dark Web is an underground marketplace where stolen data—such as credit card details and personal identifiers—is bought and sold. Norton’s identity monitoring continuously scans these hidden sources to check whether your data has been compromised.

It can monitor a wide range of personal information, including:

• Email and home addresses
• Phone numbers
• Credit cards and bank accounts
• Insurance and driver’s license details
• Mother’s maiden name
• Gamer tags

If your data appears in a breach, Norton immediately alerts you so you can take action.

Device Security

Norton continuously checks whether your iPhone or iPad is running the latest version of iOS. Since most iOS updates include vital security patches, this feature ensures your system remains protected. In fact, we often receive Norton’s alerts before Apple’s own update notifications—a useful advantage.

Wi-Fi Security

The app verifies that your Wi-Fi network is properly encrypted and password-protected. When combined with the VPN’s Auto-Connect feature, Norton automatically activates the VPN if it detects an unsecure or suspicious network.

SMS Protection

Phishing via text messages remains a common attack vector. Norton’s SMS Security filters incoming messages for malicious links that aim to steal your credentials or financial data.

Secure Calendar

Norton even extends protection to your Calendar app, scanning for event invitations that contain potentially dangerous or fraudulent links.

Is Norton the best antivirus for iPhone?

In our evaluation, Norton is the most comprehensive and reliable protection available for iPhone and iPad. While iOS is inherently secure, most antivirus apps add little real value. Norton is the clear exception—combining unlimited VPN access, anti-tracking, web filtering, identity protection, and device monitoring in one seamless package.

Compared to rivals like McAfee and Kaspersky, Norton offers superior value. It’s more affordable than Kaspersky and doesn’t restrict VPN usage when auto-renewal is turned off, unlike McAfee.

Our conclusion: Norton Mobile Security is the best antivirus for iPhone. You can try it completely risk-free with its 60-day money-back guarantee.

McAfee Mobile Security for iOS Review

McAfee Mobile Security for iOS is a powerful and polished security solution designed to keep your iPhone or iPad safe in an increasingly risky digital world. In our tests, we found it offers robust protection, strong privacy features, and helpful tools to enhance your overall online safety.

• VPN: Encrypts your internet connection and hides your location.
• Identity Protection: Monitors your personal data for breaches.
• Safe Browsing: Blocks malicious and phishing websites.
• Wi-Fi & System Scanner: Detects insecure networks and outdated software.
• Protection Score: Evaluates your digital security and suggests improvements.

Together, these features make McAfee one of the most capable iOS security apps available.

VPN – Encrypted and Reliable, But with Limits

McAfee’s VPN adds a crucial layer of security by encrypting your online activity with bank-grade encryption, ensuring your personal information and IP address remain private. You can also change your virtual location by switching between server countries, which helps protect you from tracking and allows safer browsing on public Wi-Fi networks.

However, there’s one major downside: if you disable auto-renewal, McAfee caps your VPN usage at 500 MB per day. We’re not fans of this restriction — if you pay for a service, it should remain fully functional regardless of your renewal settings.

Identity Protection – Continuous Dark Web Monitoring

McAfee’s Identity Protection feature constantly scans the web for traces of your personal data and immediately alerts you to any breaches. It allows you to monitor up to 10 different pieces of information, including email addresses, credit cards, ID numbers, and passports. When an issue is detected, the app provides clear recommendations on how to secure your accounts and reduce future risks.

Safe Browsing – Shield Against Malicious Sites

In our testing, McAfee’s Safe Browsing feature proved highly effective at preventing visits to phishing and malware-hosting websites. The integrated McAfee WebAdvisor tool rates websites in real time, letting you know whether a link is safe before you click it. This proactive approach significantly lowers the risk of accidentally sharing sensitive information on fraudulent sites.

Wi-Fi & System Scanner – Always Watching Your Network

McAfee includes a Wi-Fi and system scanner that evaluates your network connections for potential vulnerabilities. It alerts you if you’re about to join an unprotected Wi-Fi network and assesses its security level. Additionally, it monitors your iOS system version, notifying you when an update is available — a simple yet critical way to stay protected from emerging threats.

Protection Score – Track and Improve Your Security

A standout feature is McAfee’s Protection Score, which provides a clear, numerical summary of your current security status. The score reflects the safety of your personal data and overall configuration, offering actionable advice to fix issues and raise your protection level. It turns digital security into a measurable, easy-to-understand metric that encourages proactive protection.

Is McAfee the best antivirus for iPhone?

McAfee delivers an impressive set of features, combining VPN protection, identity monitoring, safe browsing, and network scanning into one well-designed package. It offers a comprehensive defense against online threats while keeping your personal data private.

That said, we found Norton’s approach slightly superior. Norton’s privacy policy is clearer, and unlike McAfee, it doesn’t limit VPN data when auto-renew is turned off.

Still, McAfee remains one of the top antivirus options for iPhone users seeking reliable and feature-rich protection. You can try it risk-free for 30 days, thanks to its money-back guarantee.

Kaspersky for iOS Review

Kaspersky for iOS is a versatile cybersecurity suite designed to protect your iPhone or iPad from digital threats while maintaining your privacy online. In our testing, we found it to be a well-rounded app that combines threat detection, identity protection, and convenience features into one cohesive package.

• Anti-Phishing: Blocks malicious websites and fraudulent emails.
• Unlimited VPN: Encrypts your internet connection (available on paid plans).
• Password Manager: Securely stores and autofills login credentials.
• Data Leak Checker: Scans for breaches involving your personal data.
• Jailbreak Detection: Alerts you if your device’s integrity is compromised.
• Secure QR Scanner: Checks links in QR codes for hidden threats.
• Social Privacy Tools: Helps you control your privacy on social platforms.

Kaspersky’s layered approach offers strong protection for both casual users and those seeking advanced security controls.

Anti-Phishing – Reliable Protection Against Scams

Kaspersky’s anti-phishing system performed exceptionally well in our tests. It effectively detected and blocked deceptive websites and emails that attempt to steal sensitive information like passwords, credit card details, or banking credentials. Whether you’re browsing or checking email, this protection works quietly in the background to keep your data safe.

Unlimited VPN – Private Browsing with Restrictions

The built-in VPN encrypts your internet traffic, hiding your location and securing your data on public Wi-Fi networks. It automatically activates when Kaspersky detects an unsecured network, ensuring constant privacy protection. However, the Unlimited VPN is only available starting from the Plus plan, which requires a paid subscription. Free users receive only limited VPN access.

Password Manager – Your Digital Vault

Kaspersky’s Password Manager is also part of the Plus plan. It allows you to safely store and manage your passwords, credit card numbers, and other sensitive credentials in an encrypted vault. The autofill feature simplifies logins across apps and websites, reducing both hassle and the risk of reusing weak passwords.

Data Leak Checker – Stay Ahead of Breaches

The Data Leak Checker is one of Kaspersky’s standout features. It continuously scans the web for leaked personal information—such as email addresses, IDs, or credit cards—and sends immediate alerts if your data appears in a breach. It also provides clear guidance on how to secure your accounts and prevent future incidents.

Jailbreak Detection – Safeguard Your System Integrity

If your device has been jailbroken, Kaspersky will detect it instantly and warn you that your security has been weakened. It also provides recommendations for restoring your device’s protection. This feature is especially valuable for users who have purchased used devices or are unaware of past modifications.

Secure QR Scanner – Safer Scanning on the Go

Kaspersky’s Secure QR Scanner adds a smart layer of protection to a common everyday action. When you scan a QR code or barcode, the app analyzes the embedded link for potential risks—preventing you from visiting malicious websites or downloading unsafe content.

Personalized Alerts and Family Features

The app offers personalized alerts that provide real-time security tips and threat notifications tailored to your usage patterns. Meanwhile, Family Sharing allows you to remotely manage and install Kaspersky protection for family members, ensuring everyone stays secure with minimal effort.

Remote Management and Automatic Updates

Through Kaspersky’s Remote Management interface, you can monitor all protected devices and adjust settings from one central dashboard. Combined with Automatic Updates, which continuously deliver the latest threat definitions and security patches, you’re always running the most up-to-date protection available.

Social Privacy – Take Control of Your Online Identity

Kaspersky’s Social Privacy feature simplifies the process of adjusting privacy settings on social media platforms. It guides you through disabling tracking features, restricting targeted ads, and tightening your visibility settings, helping you regain control over what you share online.

Verdict: Excellent Protection, but Pricey

Kaspersky for iOS is one of the most comprehensive mobile security suites available today. Its powerful combination of phishing defense, data breach monitoring, VPN protection, and system integrity checks provides robust, all-around protection.

However, the premium features—including the unlimited VPN and password manager—require the Kaspersky Plus plan, which is notably more expensive than competitors like Norton Mobile Security for iOS. Norton offers similar or better functionality at a lower cost, making it the better overall value.

That said, if you don’t mind paying a premium, Kaspersky remains an excellent choice for those seeking advanced protection and privacy tools on iPhone and iPad. You can try it risk-free for 30 days, thanks to its money-back guarantee.

Antivirus for iOS is designed to enhance the built-in security of iPhones and iPads by adding extra protection layers against phishing, unsafe Wi-Fi networks, and privacy risks. While iOS’s sandboxing limits traditional malware infections, antivirus apps help by:

• Blocking malicious websites and phishing links.
• Monitoring Wi-Fi networks for vulnerabilities.
• Scanning for unsafe configurations or malicious profiles.
• Protecting online privacy with VPNs and data breach alerts.

For more, read our blog post on what antivirus software is.

iOS security is based on a layered, closed ecosystem that minimizes the risk of malware and unauthorized access. Key elements include:

• App sandboxing: Isolates each app to prevent it from affecting system files or other apps.
• App Store review: Ensures only vetted and signed apps are distributed to users.
• Code signing: Requires all apps and updates to be verified by Apple.
• Encryption: Protects all data stored on the device, both at rest and in transit.
• Automatic updates: Regularly patches vulnerabilities and strengthens device defenses.
• Secure Enclave: Hardware-level protection for sensitive data like Face ID, Touch ID, and passwords.

Antivirus software for iOS can defend against various malware threats, helping keep your device and data secure. Here are the key malware threats it can protect you from:

• Adware: Prevents malicious ads and pop-ups from redirecting you to unsafe sites.
• PUP (Potentially Unwanted Programs): Blocks unwanted configuration profiles or shady apps installed outside the App Store.
• Ransomware: Though rare on iOS, protection helps prevent malicious links that could trigger device lockouts.
• Rootkits: Detects attempts to gain unauthorized root access through jailbreaking.
• Spyware: Identifies and blocks apps or links designed to monitor your data or activity.
• Trojans: Prevents fake or malicious apps masquerading as legitimate software.
• Viruses: iOS’s sandboxing prevents traditional viruses, but antivirus tools can stop infected attachments or links.
• Worms: Detects suspicious network activity that could spread malicious code across connected devices.

In addition to malware protection, modern antivirus suites include tools like anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, a VPN, identity theft protection, and parental controls, providing comprehensive security against a variety of cyber threats beyond just malware.

While antivirus software for iOS is essential for protecting against malware, it can’t defend against every type of threat. Here are two major risks it may not fully protect you from:

• Social engineering: Scams or phishing attempts that trick users into revealing personal or financial information.
• Zero-day attacks: Exploits of unknown vulnerabilities before Apple releases a security patch.

For full protection, it’s important to stay vigilant and practice good cybersecurity habits, in addition to using antivirus tools.

The built-in security features in iOS are strong and offer excellent protection for most users, but they do have limitations. Apple’s closed ecosystem, regular updates, and focus on privacy make iOS one of the most secure mobile platforms available.

Key Built-In Security Features in iOS:

• App sandboxing: Isolates apps to limit their access to system resources and user data.
• App Store verification: Ensures all apps are reviewed and signed by Apple before release.
• Face ID / Touch ID: Biometric authentication for secure access.
• Find My iPhone: Tracks, locks, or erases lost devices remotely.
• Encryption: Protects stored and transmitted data automatically.
• Automatic updates: Ensures timely patching of security flaws.
• Safari security: Blocks malicious websites and uses Intelligent Tracking Prevention.
• Secure Enclave: Dedicated hardware chip for handling encryption and authentication data securely.

For users seeking more comprehensive protection, additional tools beyond what iOS provides may be necessary.

What iOS lacks:

• VPN (Virtual Private Network): No built-in VPN for encrypted browsing and privacy protection.
• Identity theft protection: Lacks tools to monitor personal data leaks or breaches.
• Advanced anti-phishing: Limited detection in messaging and third-party browsers.
• Cross-platform password manager: Keychain is restricted to Apple’s ecosystem and lacks broader device compatibility.
• Parental monitoring: Offers screen time controls but lacks detailed online activity tracking.

iOS offers a high level of built-in security, but for a more robust, cross-platform approach, you may want to supplement it with additional tools such as a password manager, VPN, or identity protection service.

Anti-Malware Protection (30%)

We evaluate how well the antivirus detects and removes various malware types like viruses, trojans, ransomware, and spyware.

• In-House Testing: Using 1,200 diverse malware samples, we conduct real-time attack simulations to assess detection and neutralization of known and emerging threats through signature-based and heuristic analysis.
• Independent Lab Results: We incorporate findings from respected institutes like AV-Test, SE Labs, and AV-Comparatives to validate our results.

Security and Privacy Features (30%)

We assess additional tools that enhance cybersecurity:

• Web Protection: Testing the software’s ability to block phishing sites and web-based threats by accessing known malicious websites.
• Firewall: Evaluating effectiveness using intrusion simulations and the ShieldsUP! test to secure network ports and monitor traffic.
• Password Manager: Assessing capabilities to generate, store, and auto-fill complex passwords, plus features like two-factor authentication and biometric login.
• VPN: Evaluating security protocols, encryption, speed, server locations, data limits, and support for streaming and peer-to-peer sharing while hiding IP addresses.
• Parental Controls: Testing screen time management, content filtering, location tracking, and resistance to bypass attempts to protect children.
• Identity Theft Protection: Assessing monitoring of personal info and responsiveness to potential identity theft alerts.
• Secure Cloud Storage: Evaluating capacity, security, usability, and features like file encryption and secure sharing.
• Anti-Ransomware: Simulating attacks to test detection and blocking of unauthorized encryption via behavioral detection and exploit prevention.
• Dark Web Monitoring: Checking effectiveness in scanning the dark web for personal info and providing timely alerts.

System Performance Impact (10%)

We measure how the antivirus affects device performance during everyday tasks:

• Resource Usage: Monitoring CPU and memory during scans and real-time protection.
• Performance Tests: Evaluating impact on launching apps, downloading files, browsing websites, and copying data, aligned with AV-Test criteria.

False Positives (10%)

Accuracy is crucial to avoid interruptions:

• False Positive Detection: Assessing how often legitimate applications or files are incorrectly flagged.
• Usability Tests: Referencing AV-Test evaluations to gauge false positive frequency for effectiveness and user-friendliness.

Price and Value (10%)

We analyze overall value by comparing features to cost:

• Cost Analysis: Considering subscription prices, device coverage, and multi-year plans.
• Feature Evaluation: Assessing if included features justify the price compared to competitors.

Ownership and Reputation (10%)

Trust is essential in cybersecurity providers:

• Company Background: Researching history, industry track record, mergers, or acquisitions.
• Privacy Policies: Examining data handling, privacy commitment, and compliance with regulations.
• Ethical Conduct: Investigating past unethical behavior, data breaches, or controversies.

Sources and tools

Below are the sources and tools we’ve used to test the antivirus software:

• Apple Platform Security
• AV-Comparatives Consumer
• AV-Test Android
• AV-Test macOS
• AV-Test Windows
• GRC Firewall Test
• Microsoft Defender
• SpeedTest VPN
• Trustpilot Security Software

Read more about how we test antivirus software.

We have tested 39 antivirus software from 28 brands. These range from free antivirus programs, to entry-level paid antivirus programs, mid-range paid antivirus software, and full-featured internet security suites.

These are the programs we recommend:

• Norton Antivirus Plus
• Norton 360 Standard
• Norton 360 Deluxe
• Norton 360 Advanced
• Norton 360 for Gamers
• Norton Antivirus for Mac
• Avast Antivirus One
• TotalAV Antivirus
• Bitdefender Antivirus Plus
• Bitdefender Internet Security
• Bitdefender Total Security
• Bitdefender Premium Security
• McAfee Antivirus LiveSafe
• McAfee Total Protection
• Panda Dome Antivirus
• Avira Antivirus Prime
• Surfshark Antivirus
• Intego Antivirus
• Kaspersky Antivirus Standard
• Kaspersky Antivirus Plus
• Kaspersky Antivirus Premium
• AVG Antivirus

We believe that Norton Antivirus Plus is the best entry-level antivirus software and Norton 360 Deluxe the best antivirus all around.

If you have a specific operating system that you would like to protect, we probably have a dedicated antivirus comparison for it:

• The best antivirus of 2026 – For all OS.
• The best antivirus for Windows 11 – For Microsoft’s latest desktop OS.
• The best antivirus for macOS – For Apple’s desktop OS.
• The best antivirus for Android – For Google’s mobile OS.
• The best antivirus for iPhone – For Apple’s mobile OS.
• The best antivirus with a VPN – For both security and privacy.
• The best antivirus with a Firewall – For a focus on network security.
• The best VPN of 2026 – For a dedicated privacy solution.

Click the links to be taken to your comparison of choice.

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