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October 21, 2005 Passwords that passby Samantha Beres Those hackers out there don't sleep. These days, they have programs that can guess passwords in seconds, at least the weak passwords. And they continually probe machines to see if they can gain access. Truth be told, all short passwords can be cracked, eventually. The new thing is to use "passphrases" in which you have the option to create a password that is more than 15 characters. The hackers are looking to steal personal information like social security numbers, or for space to use as a distribution site. "In most cases (on campus) they aren't interested in what is on the machine itself," said Mike Bowman, director of IT security and policies. Most compromised machines he has seen on campus have been set up to distribute materials, such as illegal distribution of copyrighted material. Bowman said one way hackers gain access to a computer is through accounts on machines with poor passwords. Hackers aside, there also is the risk of someone just looking over your shoulder to steal your password, or discovering that sticky note you have discreetly stuck somewhere in your office. Dos and don'tsAny way you cut it, the best way to protect your computer accounts and your own identity is to create a strong password and safeguard it. For starters, here are some things NOT to do when you create your next password:
Here are some tips for creating a strong password:
Multiple accounts, multiple passwordsA good password should be unique to each account you hold. Someone gaining access to all of your accounts in one fell swoop could do more damage than if it were just one of your accounts. It's analogous to having one credit card stolen rather than your whole wallet. Then there is the obvious: Don't tell anyone your password. Bowman points out that everyone in the university community has his or her own accounts. Therefore, there is no need to share an account - or a password with anyone. He added that if you have been using a computer in public and think a password has been exposed, change it. And change it anytime you think it's been exposed. |
SummaryUse of "passphrases," a password that is more than 15 characters, will help protect your computer from hackers. |