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External Links:

• IT Security Site
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Password Security FAQ

Q. What is a PDID?

Your Personal Digital ID (PDID) is used to access UNC computer systems and an increased number of applications and increased amount of valuable information. Your PDID and password allow you to access the Northern Colorado computer network, URSA/Banner, your UNC e-mail account, your pay information, grade books and more. It’s more important than ever to protect you PDID by choosing a good passwords and taking steps to ensure that it remains private and confidential.

Q: Should I give my password to a colleague or support staff in case I need them to check my e-mail or they need to access some information on my computer when I’m not around?

A: Absolutely not. Your PDID and password combination uniquely identifies you within the Northern Colorado digital world. Remember that you are responsible for actions taken with your digital identity and only you should have access to your pay records and other personal information. It’s in your best interest to vigilantly guard and protect your PDID and password.

If you need to check your e-mail remotely, use Outlook Web Access which is can be accessed through Ursa or the Exchange Email.

Q: I have trouble remembering my password, Is there anything I can do?

A: Try using the first letter of each word in a phrase, song, quote or sentence. For example: My son Al is 3 years old in November converts to MsAi3yoiN. Remember that passwords must now be nine characters long and contain characters from at least three of the following four classes: upper case letters, lower case letters, numeric (0 -9 but not the first or last character), one special character (*, !, etc. but not the first or last character).

Q: Can’t I just write my password down?

A: Writing a password down is strongly discouraged. If you do find it necessary to write down your password until you’ve memorized it, don’t leave it in plain sight in your work area. Lock it in a file cabinet or carry it in your purse or wallet, and don’t write it down on anything that identifies you, such as a business card.

Q: Where can I get more information about Northern Colorado’s password policies and creating effective passwords?

A: Additional information is available on the Information Technology Web site or by calling the Technical Support Center at 351-4357.