ATLANTA — On social media, law enforcement agencies are warning of a new feature with Apple's iOS 17 software update. They claim it's possible for a "stranger/predator to get the contact information" from a device using NameDrop.
Cybersecurity experts dispute those claims.
NameDrop, which works similarly to AirDrop, requires multiple layers of approval before sharing contact information with a nearby iPhone or Apple Watch.
THE QUESTION
Can strangers or predators steal your personal information from NameDrop?
THE SOURCES
- Apple
- Patrick Kelley, cybersecurity expert and CEO of Léargas
THE ANSWER
No, strangers cannot steal your information.
WHAT WE FOUND
Patrick Kelley, the CEO of Léargas, said Apple is usually pretty smart when it comes to implementing new features. NameDrop is no exception.
"The entire idea behind NameDrop is that you would be able to share contacts just by touching your phone," Kelley said. "The idea is that it's a convenience, but I still have to open the phone. I have to unlock it. I have to use either a pin code or I have to use facial recognition."
Your contact information won't be sent over immediately — even with the device unlocked.
"I have to press another button that says that I'm willing to transfer it and then I have to approve exactly what I'm willing to transfer," he said. "It doesn't transfer video, images, location."
A dropdown lets you select which details to share, like an email address or a phone number. You can stop the process by moving the devices away from each other or locking your iPhone before it finishes, according to Apple.
"It's very much like the smart business cards where you can walk up and you can tap the phone and then they can choose to accept it," Kelley said. "There are going to be a lot of different features and options like this and most of them are really good and help us move through life in a more convenient way."
You can also disable the NameDrop feature in the settings menu.