Can ransomware infect iPads?

While technically possible, it is extremely rare for iPads (or any iOS devices for that matter) to be infected with ransomware. This rarity is largely due to the security measures put in place by Apple.

Firstly, iOS operates within a 'sandboxed' environment, meaning that applications are stored separately and are unable to interact with each other or with the core operating system without explicit permission. This sandboxing severely limits the potential for malware to spread within an iOS device.

Additionally, all apps available on the App Store are reviewed by Apple before being published, making it extremely difficult for a ransomware-infected app to be available for download. However, this does not entirely rule out the possibility, especially if a device is jailbroken, which bypasses many of Apple's inbuilt security features.

Furthermore, iOS updates often include security enhancements and patches for known vulnerabilities, providing yet another layer of protection against potential threats. Therefore, it's important to regularly update your device to the latest iOS version.

However, despite these protections, it's crucial to be cautious when clicking on links, especially from unknown sources, and when installing apps, even from the App Store. And while it's less common for iPads to be targeted by ransomware, that doesn't mean it's impossible, so maintaining good cybersecurity habits is key.