Change your University password to a passphrase

Cybersecurity attacks targeting universities are increasingly automated and sophisticated. As a defensive response, the New Zealand National Cyber Security Centre recommends universities switch to using longer passphrases.

In line with this advice and to reduce our risk, the University is changing its password requirements for all staff and students to a passphrase that is 16 characters or longer.

What a passphrase is, and why are they better:

• A passphrase is made up of several words such as, Morning-coffee-is-Superior or New-Zealand-invented-the-pavlova
• Longer passphrases are significantly harder to crack, even during automated attacks, and reduce the use of common patterns like P@ssw0rd!
• Passphrases are easier to remember and type

Thank you for playing your part in keeping your data, and the University’s, safe from cyber threats and attacks.

Emails containing this message have also been sent to all students and staff members.