How To Tell If Your iPhone Was Hacked – 6 Warning Signs

Forbes - Mar 30th, 2025
Open on Forbes

While Apple's iOS is praised for its robust security, iPhones are not immune to hacking, primarily through user errors such as phishing attempts. This report outlines how users can identify signs of a compromised device, including overheating, unexpected data use, and unauthorized app installations. If users notice these symptoms, quick action is needed, such as scanning for malware, changing passwords, and uninstalling unfamiliar apps to mitigate the impact and prevent further damage.

Despite the inherent security measures of iOS, maintaining device safety requires user vigilance. Regular software updates, strong passwords, and two-factor authentication are crucial preventive strategies. Users should also exercise caution when using public Wi-Fi or charging stations and avoid third-party app stores. These steps, combined with an awareness of phishing tactics, can significantly reduce the risk of an iPhone hack, preserving both personal data and device functionality.

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.2
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The article provides a generally accurate overview of iPhone security, highlighting potential vulnerabilities and offering practical advice for protection. It is timely and addresses a topic of significant public interest, appealing to a wide audience of smartphone users. However, the lack of specific data and citations affects the credibility and transparency of the content. While the article is clear and readable, it could benefit from a more balanced presentation of perspectives and additional sourcing to enhance its reliability. Overall, the story succeeds in raising awareness about smartphone security but could improve in areas such as source quality and transparency.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The article generally provides accurate information about the security of iPhones, acknowledging that while they are difficult to hack, vulnerabilities exist. It correctly notes that user error, such as falling for phishing scams, is a common way for iPhones to be compromised. However, the claim that iOS devices are targeted by phishing more than Android devices requires specific data for verification, which is not provided in the story. The article accurately describes signs of a hacked iPhone, such as overheating, rapid battery drain, and unfamiliar apps, which are consistent with common indicators of device compromise. Overall, while most claims are factual, some assertions would benefit from additional evidence or references.

6
Balance

The article focuses predominantly on the potential vulnerabilities of iPhones, which could be perceived as an imbalance given the emphasis on security features in Apple's ecosystem. It does mention the strengths of Apple's security measures, such as its closed ecosystem and app review process, but these points are somewhat overshadowed by the detailed discussion of hacking signs and methods. The article could provide a more balanced view by equally emphasizing the effectiveness of Apple's security updates and measures in preventing hacks. Additionally, it could explore how these security challenges compare to those faced by other smartphone operating systems.

8
Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, with a logical flow of information. It effectively outlines the potential signs of a hacked iPhone and provides practical advice on what to do if a device is compromised. The language is straightforward, making the content accessible to a general audience. However, the article could improve clarity by clearly distinguishing between facts and assumptions, particularly in areas where specific data or sources are lacking. Overall, the article succeeds in conveying its main points in an understandable manner.

5
Source quality

The article does not cite any specific sources or studies, which impacts the perceived credibility of the information presented. While it mentions research from a cloud security company, Lookout, regarding phishing attempts, it does not provide a direct citation or link to the study. This lack of sourcing makes it difficult to assess the reliability of the claims, particularly those that require specific data for verification. Including authoritative sources or expert opinions would enhance the article's credibility and provide readers with a clearer basis for the claims made.

5
Transparency

The article lacks transparency in terms of sourcing and methodology. It does not explain how the information was gathered or provide context for the claims made regarding iPhone security. For example, the statement that iOS devices are targeted more frequently by phishing attempts than Android devices is made without any supporting data or explanation of the research methodology. The article would benefit from greater transparency by disclosing the sources of its information and providing more context about the basis of its claims, which would help readers assess the reliability of the content.

Sources

  1. https://www.mysteriumvpn.com/blog/how-to-know-if-iphone-is-hacked
  2. https://www.idropnews.com/how-to/how-to-tell-if-your-iphone-has-been-hacked/240644/
  3. https://mspcorp.ca/top-signs-your-iphone-has-been-hacked-and-what-to-do-about-it/
  4. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/254745231
  5. https://helpcenter.trendmicro.com/en-us/article/tmka-11337