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Setting your mobile phone password

The first line of defense in helping to protect your mobile phone and data is to set a password. Once the password is set, you’ll be prompted to provide it when powering on your mobile phone or using the phone after it has been left idle for a predetermined amount of time.

Select your version of Windows Mobile, then simply follow the step-by-step instructions:

On a touch-screen device

  • Tap Start > Settings > Personal tab > Lock.
  • If there is an existing device lock and you want to change it, enter the password and tap Unlock.
  • Select the Prompt if device unused for check box, and in the box to the right, select how long your device must be unused before a password is required. If your administrator has set a minimum period of time, you can set a shorter time interval but not a longer one.
  • In the Password type box, select the type of password you want to use. Enter the password and, if it is necessary, confirm the password.
  • Simple PIN indicates a password made up of numbers only.
  • On the Hint tab, enter a phrase that will help you remember your password, but that does not allow other people to guess your password.
  • The hint will be displayed after the wrong password is entered four times.
  • Tap OK.
The next time you turn on the device, you will be prompted to enter your password.

On a non-touch screen device

  • On the Home screen, click Start > Settings > Security > Device Lock. If you have already set a password, you will be prompted to enter it before you can continue.
  • Select the Prompt if device is unused for check box.
  • Scroll left or right to select a time limit. If your administrator has set a time limit, you can set a shorter interval but not a longer one.
  • Scroll left or right to select a Password type.
    • Simple PIN indicates passwords composed only of the numbers 0-9.
    • Strong alphanumeric indicates passwords that use uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols such as punctuation marks.
  • Enter and confirm your password, and then click Done.
  • Click Yes to confirm.
The next time you turn on the device, you will be prompted to enter your password.

Tips for setting a device password

  • If your device is configured to connect to a network, use a strong alphanumeric password to help protect network security.
  • To make sure that you can always make emergency calls, don’t begin your password with the digits of the local emergency services telephone number.
  • Every time a wrong password is entered, the time the mobile phone takes to respond will increase, until the phone appears not to be responding. Contact your service provider or network administrator if you are locked out of your device.
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