NameDrop on iOS 17: Is it safe?

Apple's NameDrop feature, introduced in iOS 17, has recently become a subject of concern due to a viral video and police warnings across the United States.

The video, with over 2 million views on TikTok, falsely claims that NameDrop allows strangers to steal personal information from iPhones.

However, it's essential to clarify that these concerns are unfounded, and NameDrop isn't a significant security risk.

Understanding NameDrop

NameDrop is an extension of Apple's AirDrop functionality, first announced at the company's developer conference in June.

When NameDrop is activated, two iPhone users can initiate the feature by bringing their smartphones close together. Subsequently, a contact card with email and phone number details may appear on their devices.

Users can choose to either Share or Receive Only, and the information is exchanged between the devices. The process is completed by tapping "Done" in the top-left corner of the screen.

It's crucial to emphasise that NameDrop requires consent throughout the process. Users cannot have their information taken without their permission.

If the two smartphones are separated during the exchange or if an iPhone is locked using the power button, the contact sharing is automatically cancelled.

How to Disable NameDrop

For those who still wish to disable NameDrop, the process is straightforward.

Open the iPhone's Settings, navigate to General, and then select AirDrop. In the "Start Sharing By" section, toggle "Bringing Devices Together" to the off position.

Additionally, users can customise settings for who can AirDrop information to their phone.

NameDrop Beyond iPhone

NameDrop isn't limited to iPhones; it extends to newer Apple Watch models as well.

Apple Watch owners can receive contact information from iPhones and other Apple Watches.

To initiate a watch-to-watch transfer, users need to access Contacts, tap on their image, choose Share, and hold the watches close together.

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