Review and delete suspicious apps
Untrusted apps can secretly access your data. Regularly check your installed apps and remove anything you don't recognise or no longer use.
- Go to your Home Screen and swipe left until you reach the App Library.
- Browse categories like Suggestions or Recently Added.
- For any app you don't recognise, tap and hold the app icon.
- Select Delete App, then confirm by tapping Delete App again.
- Alternatively, navigate to Settings → General → iPhone Storage. Review the list of apps, tap on any you wish to remove, and select Delete App.
Tip
If you're unsure about an app, search online for its purpose before deleting. Some system apps might look unfamiliar but are essential for your iPhone's operation.
Check for and remove unwanted Configuration Profiles
Configuration Profiles can change your iPhone's behaviour, often used by organisations but sometimes maliciously. Remove any profiles you didn't knowingly install.
- Open Settings.
- Scroll down and tap General.
- Look for an option called VPN & Device Management. If you don't see this option, you don't have any profiles installed.
- Tap on any listed profile that you don't recognise or no longer need.
- Select Remove Profile, then enter your passcode if prompted and confirm by tapping Remove.
Important
Removing a legitimate profile (e.g., from your workplace or school) might affect your device's ability to access certain resources or networks. Consult your IT department if you're unsure.
Review and revoke suspicious 'Website Data' and 'Extensions'
Some websites can store significant data or install unwanted extensions that track your activity. It's a good idea to periodically review and clear these.
- Go to Settings and scroll down to Safari.
- Tap on Extensions. If you see any extensions you don't recognise or no longer want, tap on them and toggle them off or select Uninstall Extension.
- Go back to Safari settings and tap Advanced, then Website Data.
- Review the list of websites. To remove all, tap Remove All Website Data. To remove specific ones, swipe left on the website entry and tap Delete.
Good to know
Clearing Website Data might sign you out of some websites, but it can also resolve browsing issues and remove persistent cookies or trackers.
Use Safety Check to review permissions and access
Safety Check helps you manage who has access to your information and apps. It's a key tool for regaining control after a security concern.
- Open Settings.
- Tap Privacy & Security.
- Scroll down and select Safety Check.
- Choose Manage Sharing & Access to review apps that have access to your information.
- Proceed through the steps carefully, reviewing individuals and app access, and revoking anything you no longer wish to share.
- Alternatively, use Emergency Reset to quickly stop sharing with all people and apps, and review your device security.
Important
Emergency Reset is a more drastic option that immediately revokes all sharing. Only use this if you suspect a serious security breach and need to immediately secure your device.
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JD
Written by
Jordan DicksonFounder, CyberSecurityGuides
Founder of CyberSecurityGuides, writing practical, jargon-free guides that help everyday people recover from and protect against online attacks.
Reviewed by CSG Security Engineers