Olivia Vergopia | Head Editor
December 6, 2023
If you are an Apple user, you probably have the new iOS17 update on your phone or have heard about it. A new feature, NameDrop, is automatically activated once someone downloads the update. It enables users to share photos, and more importantly, contact information. Just by holding two phones together, this information could be swapped if both parties accept.
Police have raised concerns about this specific feature mainly to parents with children, the elderly, and the general public. A swift brush against your open phone and an acceptance tap could swap your contact information. It’s as simple as that. This warning targets young children and others who may be oblivious, but it serves as a general notice for everyone.
Some people don’t think that it is that serious. Junior Liam Carroll commented, “Personally, I don’t think that it is that big of a deal as long as you have common sense. Just keep an eye on your phone and if you don’t want to take the chance, turn it off on your phone.”
In opposition, senior Dylan Henry said, “I think that it shouldn’t automatically be turned on once you get the update. Those who aren’t aware of this feature could have no idea and something terrible could happen– you never know. The safety of everyone is always a top priority on my checklist.”
To keep your private information safe, be weary of where you leave your open phone and be mindful of your surroundings. Users can also customize what information is given when two phones are brought together. Since NameDrop is automatically turned on when the update is downloaded, Apple users can choose to turn it off if they want. This can be done by going to Settings, General, AirDrop, Bringing Devices Together, and then ‘OFF.’
Stay safe!
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