A mobile device has an authentication module that detects a proximity-based authentication component and unlocks sensitive areas of the mobile device when the proximity-based authentication component is within a desired proximity of the mobile device. If the proximity-based authentication component is not within the desired proximity of the mobile device, the mobile device automatically locks the secured areas of the mobile device. The proximity-based authentication component is separate from the mobile device in that it is not inserted or slid within the mobile device, or in any way attached to the mobile device, in order to be used.