Attackers want to gain access to your NetID and password to hack campus systems, such as MyUW, Human Resource System or the campus accounting system; to distribute spam via the UW email system; or to submit fraudulent documents. To prevent that, DoIT says your password should: contain at least eight alphanumeric characters (preferably 12); contain at least three of the following categories — upper-case letters, lower-case letters, numbers and special characters; and NOT contain a common proper name, login ID, email address, initials, your first/middle/last name. Remember to change your passwords at least twice a year.

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