iOS mobile security for business: How to keep devices safe

Everyone is aware that iPhones are known for their tight security. Apple has built a reputation for keeping its devices locked down. But when those devices become part of a business setup, things get tricky.

Even with iOS’s built-in safeguards, business use brings its own risks—data leaks, phishing attempts, unmanaged apps, and unsecured networks. That’s why relying solely on default protections may not be enough when sensitive company data and compliance requirements are involved.

Let’s walk you through what iOS mobile security really means, the risks businesses face, and how IT teams can step in with smarter management.

Whether you’re dealing with corporate iPhones or a BYOD policy, it’s time to rethink how you secure every device, app, and network touchpoint.

Understanding iOS mobile security

Mobile security for iOS focuses on four key areas that form the backbone of secure enterprise mobility, covering everything from how devices connect to how they’re used, accessed, and trusted within a enterprise environment.

• Data – Emails, files, contacts, business documents—all stored or accessed via mobile devices.
• Network – The Wi-Fi networks and cellular connections your devices use every day.
• User identity – Employee credentials, access levels, and how securely users log in.
• Business applications – Work-related apps that handle confidential or regulated information.

Apple does a good job of securing personal iPhones. However, once business workflows enter the picture, iOS mobile security needs to go a step further. Think of it as building a second layer over Apple’s foundation—one that’s built for business demands.

Why iOS security is important

iOS security is important because iPhones and iPads store vast amounts of personal and sensitive data. This makes them the targets for cybercriminals. To protect this data from unauthorized access, data breaches, and cyberattacks, strong security measures are necessary.

Why mobile security for iPhones and iPads is crucial:

• Prevents data leaks that expose customer records or confidential files
• Stops phishing attempts aimed at stealing employee credentials
• Blocks unapproved apps from accessing or sharing business information
• Secures public and private networks to avoid interception of sensitive traffic
• Keeps your team productive by avoiding device-related downtime or breaches
• Meets regulatory needs (GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS) to sidestep fines and audits
• Protects your brand’s reputation by ensuring every device stays managed

Ensuring compliance through iOS mobile security

iOS mobile security plays a key role in helping businesses stay compliant with industry regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS. With the right mobile security setup, every iPad or iPhone follows the same policies, logs the right actions, and alerts IT when something goes off track. This approach enables compliance automation, making compliance an ongoing, seamless part of daily operations rather than a rushed checklist before an audit.

It ensures consistent enforcement of security policies across all iPhones and iPads, eliminating manual gaps. Every app installation, network configuration, or data access attempt is automatically logged, creating a tamper-proof trail of activity. Real-time alerts notify IT if a device becomes non-compliant, whether due to outdated software or altered settings, so immediate action can be taken. 

Centralized dashboards give teams a full view of device health and compliance status, simplifying the process of pulling reports when regulators ask for proof. Instead of chasing down information across spreadsheets, businesses can present a unified, reliable snapshot. This level of visibility reduces audit stress and keeps your security posture strong every day.

How iOS handles business data protection

iOS protects business data using a mix of encryption, access control, and system-level safeguards. Apple’s Data Protection technology encrypts files stored on the device, locking them behind the user’s passcode. Even if a device is lost or stolen, data remains inaccessible without that key.

Each app runs in its own sandbox, isolating it from other apps and the system to prevent unauthorized access. Apps must also request permission before touching sensitive data like contacts, location, or photos, giving users control over what gets shared.

On top of that, Apple uses secure boot processes, code signing, and regular updates to patch vulnerabilities quickly. For added security, Advanced Data Protection offers end-to-end encryption for iCloud data, though it’s limited in certain regions. Together, these layers ensure that sensitive business information stays protected at all times.

Native iOS mobile security features: How Apple secures its devices

Apple has packed iPhones and iPads with strong, built-in security features. These features form the first layer of protection, right out of the box. Here’s how Apple locks things down:

Device-level security

• Secure enclave: A separate chip inside the iPhone that handles sensitive tasks like Face ID, Touch ID, and encryption keys, keeping them away from the rest of the system.
• Face ID & Touch ID: These biometric features add an extra layer to unlock devices and apps securely.
• iOS encryption: Every iOS device encrypts data by default. Even if the phone is stolen, the data stays locked.
• Activation lock & Find My: If someone loses their device, “Find My” helps track or erase it remotely. Activation Lock makes it unusable for anyone else.

OS-level security

• Secure boot process: iPhones go through a secure boot chain, ensuring only trusted Apple software runs on the device.
• App store protection & Sandboxing: Apps go through strict checks before hitting the App Store. Once installed, each app runs in its own space (sandbox), limiting access to system files or other apps.
• Frequent security updates: Apple regularly rolls out updates that fix known security vulnerabilities; users just need to install them promptly.

Network & data security

• VPN support: iPhones natively support VPNs, allowing secure remote access to corporate networks.
• Encrypted messaging: Both iMessage and FaceTime use end-to-end encryption to protect conversations and video calls.
• Data protection in transit: Whether it’s browsing or emailing, iOS keeps data secure as it travels between apps and servers.

App security

• Privacy labels: Apps must disclose what data they collect, right on the App Store listing.
• Permissions management: Users have complete control over app permissions—camera, mic, location, and more.
• Device management APIs: Apple offers powerful APIs to MDM providers, allowing businesses to manage, restrict, and secure corporate devices at scale.

Apple is crystal clear when it comes to security. But for businesses, these native features aren’t enough on their own.

Why businesses need additional iOS mobile security measures

Apple’s security is excellent. But businesses have a wider set of risks to deal with, and that’s where things get complicated.

Here’s the reality:

Native iOS security = Great, but not enough for business use

iPhones used in personal settings are one thing. But once they carry sensitive company data, connect to business networks, or run internal apps, the stakes change.

Here’s why businesses need more:

• BYOD & multi-device use: Employees often use personal iPhones for work. That means less control for IT and higher risk.
• Corporate data sharing: Files shared through messaging apps, AirDrop, or personal cloud storage can slip out unnoticed.
• Shadow IT: Employees might install apps or use services not approved by the company, putting data at risk.
• Device loss or theft: Even with Activation Lock, lost devices can mean lost access, exposure, or compliance violations.
• Phishing, malware & social engineering: iPhones aren’t immune. Attackers know how to exploit users via links, fake apps, or convincing emails.
• Compliance requirements: Whether it’s GDPR, HIPAA, or internal policies, enterprises must ensure strict data privacy and security controls.

The bottom line is that you can’t rely solely on built-in iOS security protection. You need business-grade management, visibility, and automation.

Also read: Securing iOS Devices: Key MDM Security Features

Common threats to iOS mobile security

Spyware intrusions

Advanced spyware like Pegasus can infiltrate iPhones without user interaction, accessing messages, calls, and other sensitive data. In April 2024, Apple alerted users in 92 countries about potential spyware threats.^[1]

Phishing attacks

Phishing remains a significant threat to iOS users. In 2024, 19% of enterprise iOS devices encountered at least one phishing attack per quarter, surpassing the 10.9% observed in Android devices.^[2]

Malicious applications

Despite the App Store’s stringent review process, some malicious apps manage to bypass these checks. In 2024, approximately 6.3% of smartphones had at least one malicious app installed. ^[3] ​ 

Outdated operating systems

Running outdated iOS versions can expose devices to known vulnerabilities. As of Q3 2024, 6.73% of iOS devices were operating on versions no longer receiving security updates.^[4]

Jailbreaking

Jailbreaking removes Apple’s built-in security features, making devices more susceptible to threats. In 2023, about 1.36% of iOS devices were jailbroken, equating to approximately 18.8 million potentially vulnerable devices.^[5]​

Insecure Wi-Fi networks

Connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi can expose devices to man-in-the-middle attacks, where attackers intercept data transmissions. Using a VPN can mitigate this risk.

Misconfigured cloud services

Misconfigurations in cloud storage can lead to data leaks. A study found that 6,608 iOS apps had misconfigured cloud settings, potentially exposing user data.^[6]

iOS security best practices for small/medium businesses

So, how can businesses reduce these risks and truly secure iOS devices across the board? Here are some must-follow best practices.

Device management & configuration

• Enforce passcode policies: Strong passcodes (or biometrics) must be mandatory. No exceptions.
• Enable encryption: iOS does this by default, but encryption should never be disabled.
• Restrict features: Disable risky options like AirDrop, iCloud backup, or USB accessories when unnecessary.

App management

• Manage what’s installed: Leverage a UEM solution like Scalefusion to approve or restrict apps.
• Secure distribution: Internal apps should be deployed securely. No sideloading or random downloads.

Network & data security

• Enforce VPN use: VPN should always be used, especially for remote employees, and ideally, it should be launched automatically.
• Secure Wi-Fi settings: Block unknown networks, and enforce WPA2/WPA3 security levels.

Compliance management

• Automate policy enforcement: MDM tools should automatically apply settings without requiring manual setup.
• Audit & Reporting: Regular checks, logs, and reports help IT monitor compliance and spot red flags.

Together, these best practices create a layered approach to mobile security for iPhones and iPads, covering everything from device setup to app usage and network behavior.

Role of Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) in iOS security

Apple’s security works well for individual users. But in a business setting, you need more control. UEM helps you manage every iPhone and iPad used for work. It gives IT teams one place to apply policies, monitor devices, and act fast when needed. You can push passcode rules, set up VPN, block risky apps, and control network access. If a device is lost, it can be locked or wiped remotely. 

UEM also lets you silently install business apps and restrict personal ones. It checks for policy compliance and alerts you when something’s wrong. All of this happens from a single dashboard. No need to handle devices manually. No gaps in iPad or iPhone security.

UEM also helps meet privacy laws like GDPR and HIPAA by enforcing how data is handled on each device. Whether it’s a company-owned device or BYOD, UEM ensures work data stays safe. Without UEM, IT has no real visibility or control. And that’s a risk businesses can’t take.

How Scalefusion UEM strengthens iOS mobile security

Scalefusion UEM offers layered security for iPhones and iPads, ensuring secure device management at every step, whether the devices are company-owned or BYOD. Here’s how Scalefusion Apple device management boosts iOS security:

1. Secure device enrollment – Get started fast with Apple Automated Device Enrollment (ADE) or QR-based onboarding. Every iPhone is secured right from setup.
2. App management – Deploy public or enterprise apps securely. Block unapproved apps and ensure only authorized software is used—enhancing security for iPhones in business.
3. Shared iPad support – Enable personalized logins on shared iPads. Data stays private, and users access secure profiles without IT help.
4. Custom passcode policies – Enforce strong passcodes and lock rules. Prevent unauthorized access to iOS devices and keep sensitive data secure.
5. Certificate deployment – Push digital certificates to iPhones and iPads for secure access to corporate networks and services.
6. Web content filtering – Restrict unsafe websites. Ensure secure browsing and block access to risky or non-compliant domains.
7. Remote troubleshooting – Use Remote Cast to diagnose iOS issues instantly. Minimize downtime and maintain continuous iPhone security.
8. Detailed Reports & Workflows – Track compliance, usage, and device health with real-time reports. Automate routine iOS security tasks with smart workflows.
9. Custom configurations – Push security and network settings via custom payloads. Adapt iPhone security to your exact business requirements.
10. Directory & SSO integration – Connect to Active Directory or other services. Enable Single Sign-On (SSO) for secure, seamless access across apps.
11. Kiosk mode for iPhones & iPads – Lock down iOS devices to a single app or function. Ideal for secure iOS kiosks and frontline deployments.
12. Automated compliance monitoring – Track device compliance in real-time. Set policies, get alerts for violations, and auto-remediate non-compliant iPhones and iPads.

Ready to take iOS mobile security seriously?

iPhones and iPads can be easily secured with the right solution, like Scalefusion MDM for iOS. It allows you to stay ahead of threats and keep devices under control, no matter how many devices you have. It’s time to be proactive about your iPad and iPhone security, streamline management, and give your IT team control.

Get started with Scalefusion today!

References:

1. Wired

2, 3, 4, & 5. –  Certo

6. Wired

FAQs

1. What is mobile security on iPhone?

Mobile security on iPhone encompasses the strategies and tools used to protect iPhones and the data they contain from threats like malware, phishing, unauthorized access, and data breaches. It involves both Apple’s built-in security features and additional measures businesses implement.

2. Do iPhones need antivirus software?

While traditional antivirus software isn’t typically required for iPhones due to Apple’s security architecture, businesses should focus on proactive security measures like UEM solutions, app management, and regular software updates to mitigate risks.

3. How to know if an app is safe to install?

To assess an app’s safety, review its ratings and reviews on the App Store, examine the developer’s reputation, carefully check the permissions it requests, and be wary of apps from unknown sources or those asking for excessive permissions.

4. How to manage app permissions on an iPhone?

You can manage app permissions on your iPhone by going to Settings > Privacy & Security. Here, you can view and control which apps have access to specific features like your camera, microphone, location, and contacts.  A UEM solution can also help enforce and manage app permissions across all managed iOS devices in an organization.

5. How often should an iPhone’s software be updated?

iPhones should be updated to the latest iOS version as soon as updates are released. These updates often include critical security patches that protect your device from new vulnerabilities. Enabling automatic updates in Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates is recommended.