Safe password practices

Creating a strong password can seem like a chore. But investing the time in creating a secure password can make all the difference in protecting your personal information.

Coming up with a strong password doesn’t have to be hard.

Just follow these tips and you’ll be well on your way to securing your privacy:

  • Long is Strong: Passwords must be at least 10 characters (Your UTORid password can be up to 32 characters!)
  • Mix It Up: Strong passwords have a combination of upper case characters, lower case characters, numbers and symbols.
  • The Phrase is the Way: Use an easy-to-remember phrase as your password by adding symbols, numbers and upper and lower case characters. Length is the key. For example, “A stitch in time saves nine” becomes “A-stitch-1n-time-s@ves-9”.

Avoid these common password no-nos:

  • Don’t put your username in your password.
  • Don’t use the same password for multiple accounts.
  • Don’t use one word as your password.
  • Don’t use repeating letters or a number sequence.
  • Don’t use your pet’s name.
  • Don’t use your personal information i.e. birthdate, address, phone number etc.
  • Don’t share your password or passphrase with anyone.

Use a password manager

Remembering all your passwords can be difficult. A password manager along with multi-factor authentication (MFA) will make it easy to stay in control of your online security and keep track of your login credentials.

Have you registered for U of T’s password reset tool?

Information Technology Services has created a convenient password reset tool. Once you’ve signed up you’ll be able to change your password through your personal email or via SMS. You’ll only ever need to register once!

Learn more about how to sign up in this easy step-by-step guide provided by the help desk.