Strong passwords to protect privacy
January 9, 2007 by Kristen Coulter
Filed under News
Though there have been no significant issues with online security, University technology officials said they are requiring students to make their MyID passwords “strong” to avoid potential problems.
Enterprise Information Technology Services began the security initiative Jan. 2, requiring students to update their MyID passwords. All students must change their passwords by Feb. l.
“It is a preventative measure,” said Bert DeSimone, EITS communications officer. “MyID is being used more to access more information and services. It is becoming more important to protect privacy.”
For a password to be considered strong, it must contain at least 8 characters that are not a dictionary word and include a special character, such as a dollar sign or exclamation point.
EITS Chief Information Officer Barbara White said in a press release, “The University’s administration is committed to information security and protecting our information assets.”
To update their passwords, students must log on to MyUGA and click on the “Secure MyID” link. Instructions on how to create a “strong password” are provided.
DeSimone said the University’s goal is for the process to take about four minutes.
When Yvette Spears, a junior from Atlanta, tried to update her password on Jan. 2, she said she experienced a problem with the “special character” requirement.
Spears said she tried again on Jan. 3 and her experience was problem-free.
“When I tried to change it on Jan. 3, it only took like 25 seconds,” Spears said.
Other students agree the password change is hassle free.
EITS requires the password be updated at least once every six months and will send students an e-mail reminder.
“Don’t wait for the notification,” DeSimone said. “Each student should pick a time of year when he or she will be on campus and thinking about his or her account to change his or her password.”
Brittany Overmyer, a sophomore from Alpharetta, agreed that online privacy is important.
“MyUGA is a valid thing that people can tamper with,” she said. “Changing passwords keeps our grades and everything more personal.”
DeSimone said EITS worked on strengthening the security of MyUGA for about eight months. The University Cabinet confirmed this policy in early December.
To raise awareness of this new program, the University is e-mailing students, providing a link on the MyUGA screen and posting flyers around campus.
EITS is optimistic about the impact of the new security initiative.
“We don’t want to cause anyone trouble,” DeSimone said. “We are sincerely convinced that this is a good thing.”
