MUnet Password / Guide: Create secure Miami credentials

Objective

  • To provide guidelines on creating a secure MUnet password 
  • To provide guidelines on creating secure Miami credentials 
  • To provide guidelines on password requirements and format 

User

  • Miami University Staff, Faculty, Student

Environment

  • 1388733: RapidIdentity
  • 908729: MU IAM Portal
  • Security
  • 10296: MUnet Password Utilities (WAS)
    • MUnet Password

Rationale

  • Poorly-chosen passwords are responsible for many compromised or damaged accounts

Guidelines 

Create a secure password

  • Your password must be:
    • at least sixteen characters in length — in general, longer is better
    • composed of a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters — numbers and special characters are permissible and encouraged but not required
    • stored in a secure manner — web browsers, unencrypted files, and paper (without physical protections) are not considered secure
    • private — passwords should not be shared with anyone, even support staff

 

Choose your technique wisely

  • Avoid poor passwords by choosing a creative technique
    • Pick a long phrase of random words that you can remember
      • example: CorrectHorseBatteryStaple
    • Pick a long phrase of your own slang and misspellings
      • example: SkibitiDiddlyIddlyD'ohMang
    • Many web sites provide tips on selecting good passwords: Conduct an Internet search on password security for more ideas

 

Avoid commonalities

  • Do not use:
    • a value that is the same as your UniqueID
    • your name or birth date, your significant other's name or birth date, your child's name or birth date, your dog's name, your mother or father's name, favorite band, etc.
    • your computer system's name
    • your favorite movie title or band or book
    • your street name or city
    • any of the passwords that are listed as examples on this page