How to Turn Off AirDrop on iPhone 16 (And Keep It Off)

AirDrop is great for sharing photos and files with friends, but it can also be a security risk. I've heard so many stories about people receiving random AirDrop requests from strangers in public places. That's why I always keep AirDrop turned off unless I'm actively using it.

Turn Off AirDrop from Control Center (Fastest)

This is the fastest way to turn off AirDrop when you're out in public.

Swipe down from the top right corner of your screen to open Control Center
Touch and hold the network settings card (the one with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth)
Tap "AirDrop"
Select "Receiving Off"

Turn Off AirDrop from Settings

This method is good if you want to make sure AirDrop stays off permanently.

Open Settings > General > AirDrop
Select "Receiving Off"

AirDrop Settings Explained

Receiving Off: No one can send you AirDrop requests
Contacts Only: Only people in your contacts can send you AirDrop requests
Everyone for 10 Minutes: Anyone can send you AirDrop requests for 10 minutes, then it automatically turns off

I recommend using "Contacts Only" if you use AirDrop occasionally. It's the safest option.

Pro Tip

You can also turn off AirDrop automatically using Shortcuts. I have a shortcut that turns off AirDrop every time I leave my house.

Related Tech Tips

Keeping AirDrop turned off is a simple way to protect your privacy and security! For more easy tech tips, check out our Tech Tips section or return to home.