Volume: 22 Issue: 1 Edition: Winter 2009

Authors: Sean Moriarty Department: I.T. Services Categories: Passwords, Security Position in a view: 28

.
Is My Password Secure?


As more systems use the UWin account for login, the importance of maintaining the privacy of your password is amplified. It is essential that clients follow the best practices of password security. The Ohio State University recommends the following best practices:
ˇ Don't reveal a password over the phone to ANYONE.
ˇ Don't reveal a password in an e-mail message.
ˇ Don't talk about a password in front of others.
ˇ Don't hint at the format of a password (e.g., "my family name").
ˇ Don't reveal a password on questionnaires or security forms.
ˇ Don't share a password with family members.
ˇ Don't reveal a password to co-workers while on vacation.
ˇ Don’t use the "Remember Password" feature of applications  (e.g., Eudora, Outlook,  Netscape Messenger).
ˇ Don’t use the same password on several computers and/or services as once revealed, it  would compromise the security within all the others in one go.
ˇ Do not write passwords on a piece of paper.
ˇ Choose passwords that have a combination of upper case, lower case and numbers.
ˇ If you choose good passwords and keep them confidential your password will remain secure.