With an iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad, how can I secure my data?

To secure data on an iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad, UITS strongly recommends using a passcode or password. If your device is lost or stolen, a passcode or password can prevent others from accessing your email, calendar, contacts, and other data.

Configuring a passcode or password

Note: New security features for iPhone (iOS) 4 let you set an alpha-numeric password instead of a four-digit passcode. UITS recommends using a password with some combination of letters and numbers.

To configure a passcode:

1. From the home screen, tap Settings, and then choose General > Passcode Lock.
   
   
2. On an iPhone or iPod touch, enter a four-digit passcode. On an iPad, tap Turn Passcode On, and then enter a four-digit passcode. You will be prompted to confirm by entering the same passcode twice.
   
   
3. You can then configure how your device uses the passcode:
   
   
   • Tap Require Passcode to set how long the device is idle before the passcode is required; shorter times are safer.
   • Set Erase Data to securely erase all data on your device after an incorrect passcode is entered ten times in a row.

If you forget your passcode, you can restore your device by connecting it to the computer where you normally sync.

Note: iTunes gives you the option of encrypting synchronized backups with a password. UITS recommends setting a password with a combination of letters and numbers, and saving it in your Keychain.

Wiping data from your device

To remove all personal data from your device, see How do I clear all data from my iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad?

At Indiana University, if you use Exchange on your device, you can wipe your data remotely if it is lost or stolen. For instructions, see In Outlook Web App, how can I manage my Exchange ActiveSync device?

For more about iPhone or iPod touch security, see Apple Support for iPhone or iPod touch.

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