Law enforcement agencies are issuing cautions to iPhone users following the rollout of the iOS 17 update, specifically regarding the new “NameDrop” feature. Middletown Division of Police in Ohio posted a warning on Facebook, highlighting the potential risks of this update, especially for parents concerned about their children’s safety.

NameDrop enables users to easily exchange contact information by bringing their iPhones or Apple Watches in close proximity. Users can decide whether to share or receive information, canceling the transfer at any time. However, Apple clarified that NameDrop only sends new information, not updates to existing contacts.

The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office in Michigan echoed concerns about this feature being activated by default with the update. They pointed out that while users have the choice to decline sharing their information, many might not review their settings or comprehend the functionality fully.

To disable NameDrop, users are advised to access “Settings,” navigate to “General,” and then select “AirDrop.” From there, switching off the “Bringing Devices Together” option will deactivate the feature.

The warnings issued by law enforcement stress the importance of reviewing settings and ensuring safety measures, especially for parents overseeing their children’s devices. This proactive approach aims to educate users on managing the new feature and taking control of their device’s privacy settings.