| âś…Must contain |
❌Cannot contain |
đź‘ŽShould not contain |
- At least 14 characters
- Lowercase letters
- Uppercase letters
A password that isn’t used anywhere else. Creating a unique passphrase is highly recommended, e.g., cAssette2lavaBaby
|
- Any previously used password from the past 24 months
- Known weak or common passwords, including organization specific terms
- Any part of your name or username​​​
- Your date of birth
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- Your name or username spelled backwards
- Reused passwords, patterns, or minor variations (e.g., Qwerty1!, qWerty2!, aaabbb, 12345bbb)
- Acronyms from any field
- Personal information like: phone numbers, important dates, or names (e.g., family, pets, friends, fictional characters)
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More password help
Any password or account changes may take up to fifteen minutes to replicate on all Sask Polytech systems.
Strong passwords are important for IT security and are required under our IT protocols. Poor password management and practices may compromise the Saskatchewan Polytechnic network and its services. Follow these requirements when creating a new password. Once you have a strong new password figured out, you can reset your password ​at any time.
Use the Microsoft Authenticator app as your default sign-in method. This is the best and most highly recommended sign-in method. It is more secure and helps protect against phishing. You do not need Wi‑Fi, mobile data, or cell service to receive codes after the initial setup.
Tips for remembering
- Create a memorable passphrase by combining 2–3 random short words, then adding a number or symbol. For example:
- cAssette2lavaBaby
- SunsetCoffeeTrain!
- Battery River Staple
- Use something unique, personal, or even humorous.
- Substitute numbers or symbols for letters where possible.
- Use new passwords right away and regularly; avoid changing them just before vacations or on Fridays.
Additional resources
Password golden rules
- Protect your password at all times.
- Include a number, symbol, space, or character (2 ! # % € Γ) to improve complexity.
- Never share your password or MFA codes with anyone, by phone, email, or any electronic means.
- Be aware, Sask Polytech and Information Technology Services (ITS) will never ask for your MFA codes or password. Sharing these can compromise your account and expose personal information. If you receive a request to share your MFA codes or password, do not respond and report it immediately by submitting a cyber security incident report.
- Do not write down or store passwords in your office.
- Do not store passwords on mobile or smart devices unless properly encrypted.
- Do not use the “Remember Password” feature in applications or websites.
- Lock your workstation when stepping away. Keyboard shortcuts:
- Windows 11 PC: Windows key + L
- Chromebook: Search key (magnifying glass) + L
- Apple or Macbook: Control + Command + Q
- Log off or restart your computer at the end of the day or when away for extended periods; leave it powered on when required for scheduled updates.