Across the country, law enforcement agencies are encouraging iPhone users to be cautious after a recent update released a feature that could lead to people stealing your contact information.
In the iOS 17 update, the feature “NameDrop” was released, which allows users to share their contact information with another iPhone or Apple Watch by simply holding them close together, according to Apple’s website.
Once the devices connect, users can decide to share info or receive the other person’s. To stop the transfer, users can lock their phones or move the devices away from each other.
But now, law enforcement agencies like the Middletown Division of Police in Ohio are warning parents to protect their kids from this feature to ensure their contact information can’t be easily accessed.
“PARENTS: Don’t forget to change these settings on your child’s phone to help keep them safe,” the agency shared.
In Michigan, the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office is also warning about the new feature, highlighting the potential security risk because “many people do not check their settings and realize how their phone works.”
To disable NameDrop, open settings, tap “general,” then click “AirDrop,” and disable “Bringing Devices Together.”