Starting August 19, standards and processes for passwords at MacEwan will be changed. Next time you are prompted to change your password, the following will apply:

  • Passwords must be between 14 to 64 characters
  • Spaces, capitalization and special characters are allowed, but their use is not required
  • Passwords will not expire, but can be changed at any time based on your preference

Best practices for creating an effective and secure password are outlined in the Tech Support segment of MyPortal.MacEwan.ca.

Several other systems to ensure the security of university accounts have also been implemented. These include:

  • Alternate email check: Alternate email addresses will be required in order to recover or unlock your account. When logging into your MacEwan account, you will periodically be prompted to enter or verify your alternate email address.
  • Device notification service: Every time you use a new device to log into your MacEwan account, you will receive notifications on both your alternate and MacEwan email accounts.
  • Complexity meter: When you create your password, an embedded complexity meter will provide feedback on the password’s strength.
  • New account passwords: Student applicants and new employees will access the system for the first time using a random password which will be generated by the system and emailed to their personal email address.

The new password standard was recommended for adoption by the ITM committee and approved by the President’s Policy Committee. If you have any questions about these changes or password security, please contact Tech Support at techsupport@macewan.ca.