Chinese Tech Company Claims Success in Cracking Apple AirDrop Encryption to Identify Users
A Beijing-based tech company, Wangshendongjian Technology, has reportedly achieved a breakthrough in cracking the encryption surrounding Apple’s AirDrop wireless file-sharing function, allowing for the identification of users, as stated by Beijing’s Justice Bureau.
The company’s success in assisting the police was highlighted in tracking individuals who utilized AirDrop to send “inappropriate information” to Beijing subway passersby, according to a statement released by the agency on Monday.
As part of the investigation following a complaint, the Justice Bureau stated that the senders’ mobile phone numbers and email addresses were successfully identified. While details about the nature of the messages were not disclosed, the statement mentioned the identification of several suspects.
Wangshendongjian Technology was credited with overcoming the technical challenges associated with anonymous traceability through AirDrop, ultimately curbing the spread of inappropriate content and potential negative influences, according to the statement.
CNN has sought comment from Apple regarding this development.
AirDrop has previously faced criticism for facilitating nuisance messages on subways and buses in Chinese cities. The wireless file-sharing function was also allegedly used by protesters to disseminate anonymous messages critical of the Chinese government towards the end of 2022.
Reports from international media outlets, including The New York Times and Vice World News, suggested that residents in China utilized AirDrop to distribute leaflets and images echoing slogans from a rare protest against Chinese leader Xi Jinping in October of the same year.
In response to such incidents, Apple implemented restrictions on AirDrop sharing with non-contacts for devices in China in November 2022, making it more challenging for users to share files with unfamiliar individuals. This restriction was subsequently expanded globally.
