iPad Security – Do You Need to Worry About Viruses and Other Malware?


I recently responded to this question concerning iPad security in reply to a comment left on another post. Perhaps others are wondering about iPad viruses and other threats. Here’s a copy of the question and my reply. Thanks for asking Nancy!

Dr. Brovey,
As a participant in your first iPad MC, I am excited to read that so many have taken advantage of your excellent iPad tutorials. Congratulations!
Would you address the issue of security for the iPad? As a Windows user security is always at the top of my list. I have nothing protecting my iPad. Is there such an animal? Am I open to viruses, malware and spyware?
As always, I appreciate your time in responding.
Sincerely,
Nancy

Hi Nancy! Good to hear from you again. Thanks for being a member of the very first iPad Academy Master Class!


I understand your concern as a Windows user. One of the reasons I recommend Apple computers is not having to worry so much about malware threats. Very few exist for the Mac and those that do are primarily caused by tricking a user into clicking on a bad link or downloading an infected file. So with just a bit of common sense and caution, your Mac easily remains safe. Now on to your question about the iPad.

There are those who complain about Apple’s tight control of the iOS and the App Store. However, these measures ensure that Apple’s mobile technology system of hardware, software and services results in a sastisfying and safe experience for the end user. The Apple ecosystem offers a worry free, easy-to-use mobile computing platform, including virtually no threat from malware of any kind. So you can rest easy with the iPad. Protection is built in for you.


About Andy Brovey

Dr. Andy Brovey, The Portable Prof, teaches about digital tools through his work, websites and social media. In 2007, Apple Inc. recognized his work and named him an Apple Distinguished Educator. He started this iPad Academy website shortly after the first iPad went on sale. On his Freelance Teaching site you'll find the resources you need to teach like a smart entrepreneur.

2 thoughts on “iPad Security – Do You Need to Worry About Viruses and Other Malware?

  • Brian

    With malware now in the app store as shown on the bbc have you changed this stance? There are advanced threats being launched against iPads and crossing our fingers isn’t enough

    • Andy Brovey Post author

      You are referring to the recent discovery and removal of the “”Find and Call” iPhone app from the App Store. Not an advanced threat, more a marketing annoyance. Released on the Russian app store, this app collected contact info from Russian users address books, then sent SMS message and some email spam to the contacts. This is the first such app in the existence of Apple’s app store (five years) to make it past Apple’s security. Targeted malware appears on a regular basis for Android handsets (Google) and other smartphones.
      http://www.forbes.com/sites/andygreenberg/2012/05/15/antivirus-firm-75-of-phone-based-malware-now-targets-android/
      Apple’s “walled garden” approach to app submission and approval works to keep iOS users safe. Five years of success shows this. The spammy Russian app was quickly discovered and removed.

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