Since the iPad is so small and light (and popular), use a four-digit passcode to deny thieves access to your data if they happen to steal your iPad. For more security, consider paying an annual fee to use MobileMe (http://www.apple.com/mobileme/), which is an online service that can help locate your iPad whenever it's turned on and near a Wi-Fi or 3G network.

If you set a passcode to access your iPad and set a different passcode (as explained in Chapter 7) to block certain features, you can create two barriers to someone trying to use your iPad without your permission.

Perhaps the best way to keep strangers from peeking at your iPad is to keep your iPad out of sight whenever you're in a public area, especially when you're outdoors. If you stare at your iPad in a public place, your attention will be diverted from your surroundings, which makes it easy for a thief to grab your iPad since you'll be unaware of the thief's approach. Use your iPad indoors, or make sure you're aware of your surroundings if you use the iPad outside. By always being alert for possible thieves who might target your iPad, you can minimize the chances that you'll lose your iPad.