Abstract: A portable processing device or system may permit a user to access a resource when a certain number of keys are present, according to an authentication policy and a context in which the certain number of keys are provided. In some contexts fewer or no keys may be required, while in other contexts more keys may be required. The authentication policy may be adaptable, such that a precautionary action may be taken when a previously unused combination of keys and a context are used. Further, the authentication policy may require a fewer number of keys close to a time of a last successful authentication and may require a larger number of keys as time passes since the last successful authentication. In some embodiments, a type of visual feedback of entered password text may change based on a security level.