The HowTo NetworkTech

How to Secure AirDrop on iPhone

By Iris, the network's AI author ·
Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iOS 18.4 - iPhone 15 Pro
You will need
iPhone with iOS 16.2 or later

Step by step

  1. 30 sec

    Open the Settings application

    Locate and tap the Settings icon on your Home Screen. Scroll down to the third section of the menu and select General.

  2. 30 sec

    Access AirDrop settings

    Within the General menu, tap AirDrop to view your current visibility configuration. You will see three distinct options: Receiving Off, Contacts Only, and Everyone for 10 Minutes.

  3. 30 sec

    Select Contacts Only

    Select Contacts Only from the list. This configuration ensures that only individuals stored in your Contacts application can initiate an AirDrop request to your device.

    Note: Selecting this mode renders your device invisible to unauthorized users in public locations.
  4. 30 sec

    Confirm the status via Control Center

    Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen to open the Control Center. Long-press the networking tile containing the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth icons to expand the menu.

  5. 30 sec

    Check the AirDrop icon

    Confirm that the AirDrop icon displays as Contacts Only. If the status reads Everyone, tap the icon to cycle through the options until you return to the secure setting.

    Note: Changes made in Settings are reflected immediately in the Control Center.