Before now, Apple had rightly prided itself in the security of its devices. However, things are changing rapidly these days. Cybercrime is getting more sophisticated every day, so Apple users are no longer safe. In this article, you’ll discover why Apple devices are no longer immune to security threats and learn practical steps to protect your devices, including using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and installing security updates. You’ll also find out how an identity theft protection service can help protect your personal information.
Cybercrime: Then and Now
Cybercrime is now a trillion-dollar industry in the US, drawing the attention of criminals daily. In the early days, it was something individuals did to steal data or gain access to people’s bank accounts. However, now it has become more of an organized crime with a structure and areas of specialization.
Interestingly, cyberattacks began many decades ago, even before the launch of the internet. The first form of its kind happened in France in 1834 when someone hacked the French Telegram system. They did this to steal financial market information. However, cybercrime did not firmly establish itself until the late 20th century, when it took advantage of the digital revolution.
Thanks to advances in technology, cybercriminals have become more skilled than ever. No one is completely safe anymore, whether it’s businesses, government agencies, or individuals. Recently, many have fallen victim to these attacks, losing valuable data and assets. Unfortunately, these hackers are making sure no device or operating system is off-limits. So, the idea that Apple devices are immune to attacks is no longer true.
Unique Risks Apple Users Face
It is a known fact that Apple devices are the safest in the world. At some point, their iOS was invincible and impenetrable for hackers. However, things are different now. Below are some of the cyber threats Apple users face in 2025:
- Harmful Apps: Apple users usually assume that every app on the Apple store is safe. Indeed, Apple does its best to check the app in its store to avoid damaging users. Nonetheless, some harmful apps still find a way to this store sometimes.
- Zero-Day and Zero-Click Attacks: These attacks do not require users to click phishing links. They can be planted in iMessage or WhatsApp to steal data from Apple users.
- Facetime and iMessage: Facetime and iMessage offer Apple customers one of the best user experiences. This is because of its integration with iOS. The problem is that any breach in these apps will affect the security of an Apple device.
- Side Load Apps: In the past, Apple users could only download apps from the Apple Store. But after pressure from the European Union and others, Apple has allowed users to access apps from other stores. Unfortunately, apps from these third-party stores could pose a security risk.
- Weak Passwords: Weak passwords can lead to serious problems, especially if someone steals your phone. Without strong protection, someone can access your personal information, apps, and accounts linked to your device. This can lead to identity theft, unauthorized purchases, or the exposure of sensitive data.
Identity Theft Protection Services
Identity theft protection services ensure that no one can use your information to commit criminal activities. Here’s why it would be beneficial for Apple users to subscribe to these services:
- Protection against harmful apps: Identity theft protection services help prevent hackers from accessing your data. They keep it secure and ensure your consent is required for any activity involving your personal information. That’s how you are safe even when you download from third-party stores. These services encrypt your data, which ensures that hackers cannot interpret and use it.
- Protection against impersonators: Sometimes, hackers pretend to be a famous company to deceive their targets. Interestingly, Apple Support was the most impersonated brand in the second quarter of 2023.
- Protection when using public Wi-Fi: Cyberattackers can intercept your connection to public Wi-Fi to steal sensitive information from your device. Public Wi-Fi networks are risky because they do not use encryption. With identity theft protection services, your data remains safe when connecting to these networks.
Practical Data Protection Tips for Apple Users
Apart from identity theft protection services, here are effective tips Apple users can use to protect themselves:
- Stay Away from Suspicious Links: Hackers usually send links to their targets to steal their data. Do not open the link if you are unsure about the sender’s identity.
- Automatically Update Your Devices and Software: Apple regularly updates its iOS to tackle potential risks. Enabling automatic updates will ensure that you stay ahead of cyberattackers.
- Use Strong Passwords: Remember that your device might fall into the wrong hands. Strong passwords will help you on such days before you can report the incident.
- Use the Lockdown Mode: The lockdown mode on your Apple device can protect you against cyberattacks temporarily. Use it when you suspect an attacker is trying to steal your data.
Extra Security Layer
Taking the usual precautions with your Apple device is a good start, but it’s no longer enough. As hackers grow more sophisticated, an extra layer of protection is crucial. Identity theft protection services offer that peace of mind, ensuring your data stays secure when basic security measures fall short. It’s the backup plan you need in today’s world, where it’s better to be over-prepared than caught off guard.
