The Unwanted Screen Sharing
Modern versions of macOS include a feature called “AirPlay Receiver.” When this is enabled, your Mac acts just like an Apple TV. Anyone on the same Wi-Fi network (or even nearby, depending on your settings) can attempt to cast their iPhone screen, iPad video, or another Mac’s display directly onto your computer monitor.
In a controlled home environment, this is fantastic for showing off vacation photos on a larger screen. However, if you are sitting in a crowded coffee shop, a university library, or a busy corporate office, having your Mac act as an open AirPlay target is a recipe for disruption. Random strangers or pranksters can accidentally (or intentionally) attempt to hijack your screen, throwing up a pairing code and interrupting your workflow. To prevent these unexpected pairing requests, you should turn the receiver off.
How to Turn Off AirPlay Receiver
You can disable your Mac’s ability to receive AirPlay streams in the AirDrop & Handoff settings.
- Click the Apple Logo in the top-left corner of your screen and select System Settings… (or System Preferences).
- In the left-hand sidebar, click on General.
- On the right side of the window, click on AirDrop & Handoff.
- Look for the section labelled AirPlay Receiver.
- Toggle the switch to the Off position. You may need to enter your Mac administrator password to confirm the change.
Your Mac will immediately stop broadcasting itself as an available screen on the local network. You can still use your Mac to send out AirPlay streams (like casting a movie to your TV), but no one will be able to cast their screen onto your Mac.