Researchers Claim Apple Was Aware of AirDrop User Identification and Tracking Risks Since 2019

Security researchers had reportedly alerted Apple about vulnerabilities in its AirDrop wireless sharing feature back in 2019. According to these researchers, Chinese authorities recently exploited these vulnerabilities to track users of the AirDrop function. This case has raised concerns about global privacy implications.

The Chinese government allegedly used the compromised AirDrop feature to identify users on the Beijing subway accused of sharing “inappropriate information.” The exploit has prompted internet freedom advocates to urge Apple to address the issue promptly and transparently. Pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong have previously used AirDrop, leading to Chinese authorities cracking down on the feature.

Beijing-based Wangshendongjian Technology claimed to have compromised AirDrop, collecting basic identifying information such as device names, email addresses, and phone numbers. Despite Chinese officials presenting this as an effective law enforcement technique, there are calls for Apple to take swift action.

US lawmakers, including Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, have expressed concern about the security of Apple’s AirDrop function, calling on the tech giant to act promptly. However, Apple has not responded to requests for comments on the matter.

Researchers from Germany’s Technical University of Darmstadt, who identified the flaws in 2019, stated tha

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