Can i ipad get a virus

For example, users don't have administrator privileges," Zumerle told Business Insider. And they're filtered before going into the App Store. Precautions like those make it hard for malware attacks to take place. Experts have documented about four dozen examples of malware that target iOS devices like the iPad, which means it's not completely invulnerable.

However, that number pales in comparison to the tens, if not hundreds of thousands of viruses for PCs. That said, beware of messages that your iPad has a virus. There's a good chance that this is "adware" — a message in your iPad's Safari browser that is designed to look like a virus advisory, but in reality is simply trying to lure you to a web site to buy some sort of purported anti-virus software.

You can ignore this message, but if it persists, you should clear Safari's cache. Though the risk to everyday users is quite low, you should still take sensible precautions — and thankfully, it requires almost no effort. The single best defense against malware is to keep your iPad updated to the latest version, as well as to keep apps updated as well.

To make sure you're got the most current OS update installed, do this:. Open the Settings app and tap "General. Make sure "Automatic Updates" is turned on. If there is an update available, install it. If there's no update available, it'll say that your software is up to date. Also, be sure that your apps are set to update automatically as well. In Automatic Downloads, make sure "Updates" is turned on. In addition, you should follow the same best practices on your iPad that you do on your desktop computer to avoid malware.

That includes setting strong passwords on all of your websites, apps, and services, and using a password keeper app to keep track of them. Also, only install apps from the App Store don't use developer tools to install apps from other sources , and don't click on unknown links in email. Most people don't jailbreak our iPad. In fact, as the tablet has gained more features, it's become less popular to jailbreak.

Most of what can be done through apps on Cydia and other non-Apple app stores can now be done with apps downloaded through the official App Store. Just because it's difficult for malware to get on your iPad doesn't mean your iPad is completely safe from all intrusion. Hackers are great at finding ways to either disrupt devices or to find their way inside of devices.

Here are a few things everyone should do with their iPad:. Actively scan device characteristics for identification. Use precise geolocation data. Select personalised content. Create a personalised content profile. Measure ad performance. Select basic ads. Create a personalised ads profile. Select personalised ads. Apply market research to generate audience insights. Measure content performance. Develop and improve products.

List of Partners vendors. Daniel Nations. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn. Updated on September 30, Jessica Kormos. Lifewire Technology Review Board Member. Jessica Kormos is a writer and editor with 15 years' experience writing articles, copy, and UX content for Tecca. Article reviewed on Mar 27, Tweet Share Email. Apple iPad Macs.

In This Article. Clear Web History and Data. Update the iPad for Best Protection. Do Not Jailbreak an iPad.

Is the iPad Safe? Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Email Address Sign up There was an error. If your device is unusually slow, unexpectedly crashes, runs out of hard drive space, or starts displaying pop-ups, you might have a form of spyware. Phishing is any attempt to trick you into giving up personal information that scammers can use to access your finances or online accounts. On an iPad, you might encounter phishing through emails and ad pop-ups.

Here are a few signs that indicate a scam. What should you do? Quit the Safari browser, clear your cache, and reboot the iPad. You can also call an officially listed number for the company with any questions and to report potential threats.

Before placing a computer application in the App Store, Apple reviews each app and then provides a certificate that allows it to download, install, and run on a device.

Another way an iPad can become infected is through jailbreaking. Jailbreaking enables Apple users to customize their devices and install applications, extensions, and other software applications that are not authorized by Apple.

But jailbreaking and third-party apps can leave an iPad vulnerable to malware and hackers. Cybercriminals look for new ways to crack into devices. Here are a few precautions you can take to help keep your iPad safe.

Also consider backing up your iPad regularly. If malware gets in, you may need to erase all of your data and restore to the factory settings. If any came from outside the App Store or from a third-party app store, it may be the source of your problem. Uninstall the app and check whether the problem persists. It can also display a custom message with your phone number so you can be contacted if someone finds your device and wants to return it to you. If you decide to sell the iPad, first turn off the Find My iPad feature and reset to its factory default settings.

Or, you can use a non-iOS device or a desktop to visit www. Click it to show the location and a menu with options. Set up the passcode security feature on your iPad. This makes it harder for anyone to break in if the iPad is lost or stolen.