Today@Dal

Did you know that most passwords are easily broken or guessed? Have you found it hard to create a good, strong password that you can remember without having to write it down somewhere? Creating a strong, but easily remembered, password can be a challenge, but a few "secrets" can help you. Check out the dos and don'ts below.

Dos

Do you want to create a strong password? (Your answer should be YES.)

• Use at least 8 characters, preferably more
• Use a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols
• Create an easy-to-remember passphrase by choosing a phrase and adding numbers and symbols. Length is more important than complexity. For example: "It might seem crazy what I'm about to say" becomes "Itmightseem7CrazywhatI'mabout56to$ay"
• Fairly easy to remember, but far stronger than a typical complex password such as 79RtiO)m^B or something similar
• Consider using a password safe or manager such as LastPass or KeePass
• Change your password or passphrase regularly
• Be sure you're on the correct website before entering your password or passphrase

Don'ts

You won't do these things, will you? (Your answer should be NO.)

• Don't include your username or account number in your password or passphrase
• Don't use the same password for multiple services
• Don't use a single word, in any language
• Don't use consecutive repeating characters or a number sequence
• Don't use your pet's name
• Don't use your birthdate, address, phone number, or any other type of information someone can easily obtain
• Don't share your password or passphrase

Resources:

• Password frequently asked questions
• Dalhousie Password policy and other Security and Privacy policies (myDal login required)

For other tips, information, and details please visit the Information Security area on the ITS web site.