New software has been developed by researchers at Newcastle University for the latest mobile phones and handheld computers that utilize pictures instead of letters and numbers for security codes. This new system could prove to be a boon for those who are forgetful and have a tough time recollecting their passwords and bank pins. The idea could be expanded into other areas, as the images will be harder than text passwords to copy by fraudsters, and easier to remember. Background Draw-a-Secret (BDAS) technology that is being developed works on a range of gadgets including i-phones, laptops and PDAs. This is how the system works: The 'graphical passwords' are drawn over a background, such as a photo of a flower, a map, a playing card or the night sky. The computer remembers the number of 'pen' strokes used, where the image was started and the order in which they were made. The system allows users to create passwords which are much more complex than the traditional numeric or alphabetical versions. Source