Our security team is focused on bringing you the tools and information to provide a safe and secure computing environment.
The services and tools that safeguard DMU’s computing resources and data include, but not limited to, desktop configuration, mobile device management, antivirus, firewalls, and network monitoring.
Employee Security Training
All employees are required to complete security awareness training.
Security Policies
Information about safe computing and other ITS policies can be found on the Policies and Procedures page.
Password Tips
Password safety is important not just at work, but also at home. A password is often the only thing between you and your life savings, social information and workplace data.
Here are six tips that will help you create stronger and safer password:
1. Use long, complex passwords
Password crackers rely on the total number of combinations they have to try before finding a password. The higher the number of character combinations the stronger the password. An above average desktop can test upwards of 4 billion password combinations per second.
Comparison of two password lengths:
- Password: aaaaaaaaa
9 characters = 22 minutes to crack - Password: aaaaaaaaaaaa
12 characters = 276 days to crack
Of course, do not use the letter ‘a’ only as your password. Password cracking programs have some features which may actually make repeatable and pattern passwords easier to crack reducing the time it takes.
Your best defense is to use a combination of uppercase, lowercase, numbers and special characters. This makes password cracking applications use very large character sets to guess passwords, then the number of possible combinations become too large to realistically attempt. Try to create passwords that will be longer than 15 characters.
2. Create passphrases instead of passwords
We know that length is really important and creates safer passwords the longer they are. It can be really challenging to remember long passwords. Instead, use passphrases. Try to create strong passwords with words that go together.
Try something like:
- MyPa$$wordissecure = my password is secure
- H0waboutTh!sone = how about this one
These are extremely long passwords and would be considered very safe. Using sentence structures that you could speak also makes it easier to remember.
3. Avoid dictionary words
Password crackers are extremely efficient at using dictionary lists that have commonly used passwords. Using these lists can compromise a weak password within seconds. The exception is when you put multiple dictionary words together to for pass phrases.
4. Change passwords regularly
Follow a healthy habit of changing your password often to limit your exposure to attack.
5. Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts
Using the same passwords for different accounts can put you at risk if your password is compromised. Once an attacker has access to one account they can potentially access other accounts with those same credentials if they are aware of them.
6. Do not share your password
Even if it may save time and fell like it’s more efficient, sharing your password is poor habit that could put your personally protected information at risk. Our university has mechanisms for working with you to resolve issues when a password is needed. ITS will never ask for your password.