Craft strong passwords to protect your information

Last updated: August 6, 2024

Using safe password to protect your computer system.

Creating a strong password can seem like a chore, but it can make all the difference in protecting your personal information. Follow this guide for how to create strong and secure passwords.

Use password best practices

Long is strong

Passwords must be at least 10 characters. Your UTORid password can be up to 32 characters!
Mix it up

Strong passwords have a combination of upper case characters, lower case characters, numbers and symbols.
The phrase is the way

Use an easy-to-remember phrase as your password by adding symbols, numbers and upper and lower case characters. Length is the key. For example, “A stitch in time saves nine” becomes “A-stitch-1n-time-s@ves-9”.

Avoid common password mistakes

Don’t put your username in your password.
Don’t use the same password for multiple accounts.
Don’t use one word as your password.
Don’t use repeating letters or a number sequence.
Don’t use your pet’s name.
Don’t use your personal information, such as your birthday, address, phone number, etc.
Don’t share your password or passphrase with anyone.

Use a password manager

Remembering all your passwords can be difficult. A password manager along with multi-factor authentication (MFA) will make it easy to stay in control of your online security and keep track of your login credentials.

Register for U of T’s password reset tool

If you forget your UTORid password, Information Technology Services has a convenient password reset tool that you can use. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll be able to change your password through your personal email or via SMS. You’ll only ever need to register once!

Learn how to sign up in this easy step-by-step guide.

Best practices & tips

Best practices & tips

Best practices & tips