I'm curious about the security risks of malware on the iPhone 15 Pro. I've been using iPhones for a long time and I usually play it safe—I avoid sketchy sites, never jailbreak, and I'm careful with file downloads. Still, I'm wondering if malware could actually run in the background on a non-jailbroken iPhone and record activities like screen capture, camera access, or monitoring other apps without me knowing. Is this kind of surveillance only possible if someone installs a management profile or grants specific permissions? I'd love to hear from those experienced in iOS security to help clarify real threats versus paranoia.
3 Answers
Every smartphone has its vulnerabilities, but Apple does a better job than most at securing their devices. It can be tricky to take over an iPhone entirely, as it usually takes multiple layers of hacks. Regular security updates patch up vulnerabilities, especially in WebKit, so staying updated is crucial.
The chances of your iPhone being compromised without your knowledge are pretty slim unless you're a high-value target. If you're just an average user, it’s tough to install malware on your device without trying hard. Keeping your OS up-to-date is your best defense against potential threats.
Yes, it's true that iPhones can track you and listen in, but that's not just an iPhone issue; most smartphones have similar capabilities. However, unless you’ve explicitly granted permissions or installed a management profile, your exposure to such risks should be minimal. Just stay cautious about what you install.
Sounds like you're saying I should keep being careful with my downloads.

That's good to know, I'm always updating my phone.