What is AirDrop?
AirDrop is a proprietary Apple feature that uses a combination of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to quickly transfer files, photos, and links between iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers.
While it is incredibly convenient for sending a document to a coworker, it can also be a massive privacy and security annoyance. If you have your AirDrop settings configured to “Everyone,” you might receive unsolicited, inappropriate photos (often called “cyber-flashing”) or random files from strangers while sitting in a coffee shop, airport, or classroom. To protect your privacy and stop your Mac from being discoverable on public networks, you can completely disable AirDrop.
How to Turn Off AirDrop on Your Mac
You can easily restrict who can send you files, or disable the receiving feature entirely, directly from the Control Center or Finder.
- Look at the top-right corner of your Mac’s menu bar and click on the Control Center icon (it looks like two small toggle switches).
- In the Control Center dropdown, click on AirDrop.
- A small menu will expand showing your discoverability options.
- Select Contacts Only if you only want people in your address book to be able to send you files.
- To completely turn off the feature and stop receiving files from anyone, toggle the main AirDrop switch to the Off position (the icon will turn gray).
Alternative Method via Finder:
- Open a new Finder window.
- In the left-hand sidebar, click on AirDrop.
- At the bottom of the AirDrop window, look for the blue text that says Allow me to be discovered by:
- Click the dropdown arrow next to it.
- Select No One.
Your Mac is now completely invisible to other Apple devices searching for AirDrop targets, ensuring you will not receive any unsolicited files.