Password Use

Passwords are the keys to all your online resources. Everyone who connects to the Emory's online resources is responsible for taking all appropriate steps to secure their accounts and select strong passwords.

Choosing a Password

As a minimum standard, the password you select must:

  • Be between 9 and 30 characters long.
  • Passwords must contain at least 2 alphabetic characters (A-Z, a-z), at least 2 non-alphabetic characters (spaces, numerals, punctuation and/or special characters appearing on a standard U.S. PC keyboard). 
  • The userid/netid cannot be part of the password, and the password cannot contain more than 2 consecutive characters that are identical.

Keeping your Password Safe

You should never:

  • Write down your password or give it to anyone else
  • Use the same password for multiple services or websites
  • Provide your password over the telephone
  • Put your password in e-mail, even to OIT staff or technical support

Password Reuse

It’s common for people to use one or two passwords for everything in their digital lives. Additionally most websites require you to register your e-mail address as your username. So what happens if you’ve used your Emory credentials (email address and password) on another site that gets hacked? Not only will the attacker have access to your information on the compromised site, but they’ll also have access to your work e-mail, files, and HR data. Additionally, any other account that uses the same credentials will be vulnerable. You should never reuse a password, especially your Emory password, for other accounts

Forget Your Password?: Please contact the IT Service Desk or 404-727-7777

Other Password-related links