Why should you protect passwords? Because passwords can be used to: Gain access to your computer and to data on it. Authorize transactions without your knowledge. Access programs, files and applications that only you and/or a selected group of others should have access to. Change passwords and lock you out of your own accounts. (Back to Minimum Requirements Main Page)

Use passwords that can't be easily guessed, and protect your passwords. Characteristics of good passwords:

• At least 8 characters in length
• Contain a mixture of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols
• Difficult to guess, e.g. don't include real words (English or otherwise) or personal information such as user/login name, names of family members, places, pets, birthdays, addresses, hobbies, etc.
• Easy to remember (so you don't have to write them down)

Protect your passwords

• Don't share or publish your password - protect it the same as you would the key to your residence. After all, it is a "key" to your identity.
• Avoid writing your passwords down.
  • If you need to write your password down on paper, safeguard the paper in a locked drawer or cabinet rather than posted on your monitor, under your keyboard, or in a drawer near your computer!
  • Better yet, use a phrase to help you remember your password, such as: MdHF&NAW! (My dog Has Fleas and Needs A Wash!)
• For additional information and tips, see the UCSC's Password Strength and Security Standards.

GETTING HELP:

• Contact the ITS Support Center or your ITS Divisional Liaison with questions or concerns about any of this information.
• To manage and/or change your email password, go to: https://www2.ucsc.edu/its/cgi-bin/password.
• For help with forgotten passwords or other password questions, contact the ITS Support Center.
• If ITS detects that your password has been compromised, it will be scrambled to protect your account. If this happens, you will need to contact the ITS Support Center to get your account reactivated.
  
  

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