Password: Helpful Hints

  • Do
    • Do make up a nonsense password that is at least 8 characters in length, including at least some numbers and a special character.Here is an example: Wdtcctrtgtt0$. This password could mean "Why did the chicken cross the road to get to the other side.” A zero is used to represent the “o” in “other”, and the $ symbol is used to represent the “s” in “side.” IT recommends using letters to represent an easy to remember (but arbitrary) sentence symbolized in this abbreviated fashion.
    • Do change your password before it expires, especially the first time you log into the system.
  • Don't
    • Don't choose a word or combination of words from a dictionary, even in a foreign language.
    • Don't use personal information such as your name, make of car, birth date, child’s name, etc.
    • Don't tell anyone your password.
    • Don't write your password down.
    • Don't increase the numbers by one when prompted to your password. Change the password by using a combination of characters, numbers and special characters.
    • Don't store the password in a spot easy to find, i.e., in a top desk drawer, under the keyboard, taped to the monitor, in the system manual.