What's going on?

In the past, our main focus when creating passwords was to prevent easy guessing by humans. However, as technology has advanced, we now face the additional challenge of protecting against computer-based hacking as well. To meet this demand for stronger security, we need to prioritize higher password entropy.

Password entropy is a measure of how difficult it would be to hack a password. Passwords with high entropy are considered "strong passwords." To adapt to the evolving threats, we have strengthened password complexity requirements. With these enhanced password protections in place, passwords will no longer expire. Instead, passwords should only be changed if there is a specific reason to believe they have been compromised. 

What is the district's new password complexity standard?

This password update follows the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) guidelines for password security and best practices of the Texas Cyber Security Framework. Keep the information below in mind when developing your new password.

Defining Strong Passwords

A strong password is:

• at least 12 characters long but 14 or more is better.

• a combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.

• not a single word that can be found in a dictionary or the name of a person, character, product, or organization.

• significantly different from your previous passwords.

• easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess.

When should they be updated?

Starting Tuesday, July 18, 2023, staff members will have the opportunity to update their passwords to comply with the new complexity standards.  The deadline to complete this password update is August 8, 2023.  This is a crucial step in preventing unauthorized access to sensitive data of both students and teachers.