Answered By: Jennifer Kasch
Last Updated: Dec 04, 2023     Views: 252

Effective October 2nd, 2023, the password length requirements for college accounts will be increased to 14 characters. Passwords will still require at least one character from the three categories including uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, or special characters.

Why is this change happening?

  • This change is happening so the College follows best practice recommendations along with reducing the instances of compromised passwords.

Will this be required by every Madison College Employee and Student?

  • Yes. Initially password changes will be voluntary but eventually all employees and students at Madison College will be required to update their password. Timeline on the required change will be forthcoming.

What are the new password update requirements?

  • We are only changing the length to 14 characters.
  • The updated passwords will still need contain at least one (1) character from three (3) of the following categories:
    • Uppercase letters (A-Z)
    • Lowercase letters (a-z)
    • Digits (0-9)
    • Special characters ( ~ ! @ # $ % ^ & * _ - + = ` | \ ( ) { } [ ] : ; " ' < > , . ? /)

My password currently meets those requirements. Do I still need to update it after October 2nd, 2023?

  • Yes. All employees and students must update their password after October 2nd, 2023 for us to ensure every account has been updated.

What do I need to do right now?

What is the timeline for this password update?

  • The new password rules are effective October 2, 2023. We recommend you change your password as soon as possible.
  • You may still log in with your current password, but any changes will require the new updates.
  • In the future, you will be asked to update your password with the new requirements upon log in.

What are some examples of a good password?

  • Offering password suggestions runs the risk of multiple individuals choosing that as their new password. We would like to avoid compromising a password at the outset.
  • We suggest using a passphrase as the newest best practice.

When should I update my password?

Can I update my password now?

  • Yes, you are encouraged to change or reset your password now. In the future, you will be asked to update your password with the new requirements upon log in.

What if I do not update my password by the required time?

  • At log in, you will be prompted to update your password with the new requirements.

What if the system is not accepting my updated password?

  • It may not meet the updated requirement. Check to make sure it is 14 characters with at least one (1) character from three (3) of the following categories:
    • Uppercase letters (A-Z)
    • Lowercase letters (a-z)
    • Digits (0-9)
    • Special characters ( ~ ! @ # $ % ^ & * _ - + = ` | \ ( ) { } [ ] : ; " ' < > , . ? /)

Who should I talk to if I have more questions?

  • Students - contact the Student Help Desk 608.243.4444
  • Employees - contact the Technology Services Help Desk 608.246.6666
 
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