James C. Bourke, CPA wrote today on the importance of passwords of portable electronics.  In today's world, where Blackberry and iPhones contain confidential client information, it is important to utilize appropriate built-in encryption and password capabilities.

He recommends:

Securing portable devices combines many different techniques. For example, you probably have one or more passwords that need to be entered before accessing data. Be smart and keep these in mind when using and creating passwords:

The Obvious — Create a strong password that you can easily remember and protect it from prying eyes.

Length and Complexity — Use at least 14 characters. The greater the variety of characters in your password, the better. Use the entire keyboard, not just the letters and characters you use or see most often.

Avoid — Dictionary words in any language; words spelled backwards, common misspellings and abbreviations; sequences or repeated characters; using personal information.

Test Your Password — Try www.microsoft.com/protect/fraud/passwords/checker.aspx. Microsoft offers some good guidance on creating strong passwords.

I carry my Blackberry wherever I go, and I do have a password requirement.  I have to enter it dozens of times a day to get at my information, however that is a minor inconvenience compared to protecting my client information.