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Summary: Use this checklist to create and remember passwords and to assure the security of your data, computer, and networks. |
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How to do it |
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Create safe passwords. |
Common passwords invite hackers and viruses to access your personal data. Increase your protection with these techniques:
- Use at least six characters although seven are preferable. Maximums and miminums vary with appications.
- Don't use names or words of more than four letters found in the dictionary. Try substituting numbers for vowels if your password is identified as a dictionary word.
- Avoid strings of numbers such as a birth date, social security number, or phone number.
- Mix upper- and lower-case letters.
- Include symbols in addition to letters and numbers.
- Avoid consecutive numbers or letters from the alphabet or keyboard.
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Remember your passwords. |
Experts strongly advise against writing down your passwords. Instead, follow these methods to remember them:
- Combine memorable words and numbers to make a more secure password, such as J3o8h46n, based on John's name and his birth date of 3/8/46.
- Use a system of themes and replacement keys. For example, use names of fruits, such as orange, tangerine, and apple, for a password theme. Then use symbols to replace certain letters in the passwords, e.g., use # to replace the letter N and [ in place of E.
- Base your password on a familiar poem or song. For instance, "In Xanadu did Kublai Kahn a stately pleasure dome decree ..." could be InXd2K, a mixture of upper- and lower-case letters and a number.
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Protect your computer and passwords. |
Optimize password security with these practices:
- Log out or start a password-protected screensaver when your workstation is not in use.
- Don't use the same password for all purposes.
- Don't share passwords with others or send them via e-mail.
- Don't let your Web browser remember your passwords. Public or shared computers allow others access to your password.
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Students, if you have questions contact ACS Help Desk, (858) 534-3227.
Faculty and staff, if you have questions contact Gabe Lawrence, (858) 822-3785. |
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