Passwords

Having a strong password is increasingly important. Weak passwords can be "guessed" or "cracked" using free software available online, allowing unauthorized access that can result in identity crimes, extortion, or damage to reputation through the disclosure of sensitive or private information (yours and RIT's). Choosing a strong password and changing it regularly are two of the most important things you can do to protect yourself online.  Follow the password standard and subscribe to our social media outlets for password tips and tricks!

Password Standard

Documented Standard

• Current Password
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Is your password easy to crack?

What is a secure password?

A secure password should be virtually impossible for others to guess. It should not contain or be based on personal information, and it should not be written down or given out to anybody.

RIT Information Security recommends:

• Minimum 15 characters (at least 8 required)
• Mixed upper and lower case letters
• At least one number and at least one symbol

Minimum requirements for passwords can be found at: https://www.rit.edu/security/content/password

What should I avoid?

There are many ways people try to make their passwords easier to remember. Cracking programs look... ...

Limiting account privileges provides simple but effective protection when working online. Limited accounts (sometimes called standard accounts) allow you to do most daily activities but do not allow you to install software or make certain changes to the computer.  Only accounts with administrative privileges can install software on the computer.

Many attacks take advantage of the fact that an administrator account is created by default (the “Owner” account) and that most people neglect to make any additional accounts on their computer.  In general, when malicious attachments or links are clicked, any malware is downloaded and executed in the background.  When... ...