DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) — Following a new update, law enforcement agencies are cautioning iPhone users.
The Middletown Division of Police in Ohio issued a warning to parents on Facebook about the “NameDrop” feature introduced in the iOS 17 update.
This feature enables users to easily share their contact information with another iPhone or Apple Watch by bringing the devices into close proximity.
After the devices connect, users can choose to share their info or receive the other person’s. There is also an option to cancel the transfer by locking the phone or moving the devices away from each other before the process is completed, as per Apple.
Apple also clarified on its website that NameDrop only functions for sending new information, not updating a contact already in the phone.
“PARENTS: Don’t forget to change these settings on your child’s phone to help keep them safe,” the Middletown Division of Police advised on Facebook.
The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office in Michigan also shared a warning about the default-on feature with the new update.
The sheriff’s office pointed out that while users can decline to share their info, “many people do not check their settings and realize how their phone works.”
To disable the feature, go to “Settings,” tap “General,” and then click “AirDrop.” Toggle the “‘Bringing Devices Together” option to off.
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