Detecting Pegasus Spyware on Your iPhone or iPad: a Step-by-Step Guide
How To Spot a Dangerous Spyware
Overt Operator
September 11, 2023
Cybersecurity has become an increasing concern for smartphone users, and the recent discovery of the Pegasus spyware has only escalated those fears. Pegasus is a highly sophisticated spyware that can infect iPhones and iPads, allowing hackers to gain full access to the device and its data.
Now, a third-party iPhone and iPad management tool called iMazing has introduced a spyware detection capability to help users determine if their device is compromised.
What makes Pegasus so dangerous is that it can be installed without any action from the user. Simply receiving a message can be enough to activate the spyware. While Apple has likely patched this vulnerability in the iOS 14.7.1 update, users need to be vigilant and ensure their devices are secure.
To check if your iPhone or iPad is infected with Pegasus spyware, follow these steps:
1. Download and install iMazing: iMazing is a trusted third-party software that allows you to manage your iOS devices from your computer. Visit the iMazing website and download the latest version of the software for your Mac or PC.
2. Connect your device: Once iMazing is installed, connect your iPhone or iPad to your computer using a USB cable. Unlock your device and trust the computer if prompted.
3. Select your device: Launch the iMazing app and select your device from the list of available devices.
4. Detect Spyware: Look for the "Detect Spyware" option in the iMazing app and click on it. This feature is included for free in version 2.14 of the software.
5. Follow the instructions: iMazing will guide you through the process of downloading the necessary data from your device and creating a backup. This step may take some time, so be patient.
6. Start the analysis: Once the backup is complete, click the "Start Analysis" button to begin the scan for spyware. iMazing will scan the data on your device for any signs of malware or spyware.
7. Review the results: After the analysis is complete, iMazing will present the results in an easy-to-read format. It will indicate if any warnings or potential threats were detected.
In the unfortunate event that spyware or malware is found on your device, it is important to take immediate action to remove it. Contact a cybersecurity professional or follow the recommended steps from iMazing to clean your device and secure your data.
It is important to note that while iMazing has introduced this spyware detection feature, it is always recommended to keep your iPhone or iPad up to date with the latest iOS updates from Apple. Regularly updating your device's software can help prevent security vulnerabilities and protect against potential threats like Pegasus spyware.
By following these simple steps, you can gain peace of mind and ensure the security of your iPhone or iPad. Stay informed, stay protected, and take the necessary steps to safeguard your digital life.