ipad asks for passcode after ios update

Apparently they do. Many users are reporting after the iOS 15 update it's defaulting to a 6-digit passcode.

People have said that entering 123456 or 000000 has worked even though they swear they've never set up one themselves.

I work for Verizon and I'm getting frantic calls early in the morning because of this.

If you’re using either touchID or FaceID then you set a screen lock passcode first. That is a requirement for those.

The system will ask for your screen lock passcode every time it is rebooted, such as after a system update is installed. After you enter the code, your touchID or FaceID will be enabled again for unlocking the screen.

Passcode do not setup themselves.

Which iPad model do you have?

Are you using Face ID or Touch ID?