Collected information is analyzed by the mobile device to determine whether the device is displaced from the owner. The mobile device monitors and detects a reduction of ambient light to automatically enter into protection mode without manual activation. If an increase of ambient light and movement of the mobile device are both detected, then the device enters into authentication mode. Various techniques to verify the user's identity may be implemented in authentication mode. The user must correctly match an input key code, button combination, or an image recognition photograph against the stored information according to the method of verification chosen in each respective process. An alarm is activated if the device determines authentication is not received but may be disabled when the user's identity is verified after another authentication attempt.