Be Aware: iPhone NameDrop IS Safe, Experts Call Warnings “Hysteria”

Police departments around the country have shared similar posts in the past week to warn iPhone users of a new feature and the dangers that surround it. The only problem is, the experts say there's nothing to worry about.

The worry from law enforcement agencies is that people will be able to steal your personal information through the use of NameDrop, but experts are saying it's quite the opposite of true.

NameDrop is similar to AirDrop in the sense that it is a wireless transfer of data from device to device - however, AirDrop works within Bluetooth range - about 30 feet. Surely at some point you've been on a plane or in a concert hall when someone you don't know has AirDropped a funny new meme or accidentally included you in sharing family photos.

But experts say that this isn't the case with NameDrop. Apple says NameDrop only works if your Apple device is within a few centimeters (or in American - "like an inch") of another device.

Both of the devices need to be unlocked for NameDrop to work, both have to have NameDrop enabled, and you have to pick which pieces of contact information you want to share.

Sure, there's always the possibility that you stick your phone in your pocket without locking it, and someone comes up and holds their phone up to your pocket long enough for the NameDrop to activate, and then you bump the screen with the inside of your pocket and accidentally click share. Sounds ridiculous, right? That's because it is.

So, there you go. It's not anything to worry about, but if you are still worried, I suppose you could turn off the feature.

Why are police departments sharing posts warning of the dangers of this thing? No idea.

How To Turn Off NameDrop

If you still want to be sure you're covered, that's your choice. It's easy to do.

To turn off NameDrop, tap on the Settings app on your iPhone, then General → AirDrop → and turn off the button for “Bringing Devices Together.”

Stay safe out there, and only share information with people you trust.