It’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month, which means it’s Information Technology Services’ month to help you turn awareness into action.
Throughout October, ITS is sharing best practices and helpful reminders to protect you, your equipment, and University systems and data from today’s ever-evolving cyber threats.
To start, passwords are still an important first line of defense for your online accounts. Keep these tips in mind when creating a password or passphrase for your WVU Login and personal accounts:
Longer is stronger. WVU Login passwords must be at least 12 characters, but security experts recommend using passwords that are 16 characters or longer whenever possible.
One of a kind. Each account needs its own unique password. Never reuse your WVU Login password for personal, non-University accounts, and never share it or write it down.
Random beats predictable. Avoid names, birthdays, common phrases, and keyboard patterns. Instead, use a random combination of letters, numbers, and symbols or a long, memorable passphrase.
Managing dozens of unique passwords can be challenging. Password managers like Google Password Manager and Apple’s Passwords app can help by securely storing passwords and generating strong, unique passwords for each account. Be sure to secure your password manager using MFA such as a fingerprint or facial recognition scan.
You may also begin seeing more websites offer passkeys, a newer sign-in method that uses your device’s built-in security, such as a fingerprint or facial recognition, instead of a traditional password. Passkeys are easier to use and more resistant to phishing attacks.