KAUST IT is would like to remind you of the upcoming rollout of the new passphrase model. The required changes will be carried out over the coming weekend and will be available to all users starting March 30, 2019. All KAUST systems will be accessed using passphrases avoiding the traditional special character complexity of passwords. Any new password changes beginning March 30, 2019 will require to follow the new passphrase model.
The new password/passphrase model approved and published on the KAUST Policy website is designed to increase the security of your account while improving convenience. You can read the officially published standard here for details.
What’s changing?
- Special characters will no longer be a mandatory requirement — meaning you’ll be able to remember your passwords effortlessly.
- The minimum length will be increased from 8 characters to 12 — the longer the password, the harder/longer it will take to crack.
- Spaces will now be permitted — so you can use a quote or a song lyric of your choice as your password.
- Password expiry will be extended from 6 months to 1 year* — you won’t be required to reset your password every six months, meaning you can keep the same password all year long.
What do I need to do?
- No immediate action is required. Starting March 30, any new password changes will need to follow the new passphrase guidance.
- We expect you to familiarize yourself with the newly published password standard ahead of time.
For any questions or concerns, please contact the IT Service Desk on 900 or 012-8080900 and select the “IT” option, or send an email to: ithelpdesk@kaust.edu.sa or log a ticket via the self-service site: https://servicedesk.kaust.edu.sa.
Thank you,KAUST IT
Thank you,KAUST IT