The AirDrop feature is a really efficient method for sharing a lot of files, or large files, with someone else.
But there is an AirDrop setting where you can receive files from anyone within range, which you may not want to do.
Our tutorial below will show you how to set the iPhone AirDrop setting so that only contacts on your phone are able to send you files in this manner.
How to Restrict iPhone AirDrop to Only Contacts
- Open Control Center.
- Tap and hold the Wi-Fi icon.
- Choose the AirDrop option.
- Select Contacts Only.
Our guide on how to set AirDrop to contacts only an iPhone continues below with additional information, including pictures of these steps.
The AirDrop feature on your iPhone is a convenient way to share files with other iPhone users.
Once AirDrop is turned on, you are able to send and receive compatible files with nearby individuals whose settings allow them to receive files from you.
There are two different options for receiving files for AirDrop.
You can receive files from Everyone, or you can receive files only from people that you have already set up as a contact.
If you are concerned about a random stranger sending you files via AirDrop, then the steps below will let you change your settings so that you only get files from people you know.
Related: You can read our guide on how to change your iPhone AirDrop name if the current setting is incorrect.
How to Set AirDrop So That Only Contacts Can Send You Things (Guide with Pictures)
The steps in this article were performed on an iPhone SE in iOS 10.3.2.
Once you make this change, the only people that will be able to send you files via AirDrop are people for whom you have created a contact.
If you find that you are still having trouble with AirDrop after making the change below, then this Apple support article should be able to help.
Step 1: Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open the Control Center.
On newer iPhone models you can open the Control Center by swiping down from the top-right corner of the screen instead.
Step 2: Touch the AirDrop button.
Step 3: Tap the Contacts Only option.
Now that you know how to set up your iPhone’s AirDrop feature so that only your contacts can send you files that way, you can be more confident that you or your child aren’t ging to be the recipient of unwanted AirDropped files from a stranger.
Do you have a contact that recently changed their number, and you want to ensure that they are identified appropriately when they try to contact you on your iPhone?
Learn how to change a contact’s phone number on your iPhone is some of their contact information has changed.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.