Level 2 Password

Last Updated: June 21, 2024 12:49 pm

OASIS IRB Support

Access to study data must be protected by a username and password that meets the complexity and change management requirements of a UNC ONYEN.

  • PC computers that are members of the ad.unc.edu domain meet this requirement automatically.
  • Computers that are not members of the ad.unc.edu domain will need to have their local password policy adjusted manually to meet ONYEN password standards.
  • Data cannot be stored on an external device like a USB drive unless the file or the drive is password protected, and the password meets the ONYEN password requirements.
  • Mobile devices such as Android and iOS should use the strongest capable password protection.

 

When handling your sensitive research data at Carolina, certain guidelines are in place to ensure this data remains secure. PCs connected to the ad.unc.edu domain automatically meet UNC’s security requirements, making it easier to protect research information. However, computers outside this domain need manual updates to their password policies to align with ONYEN standards, emphasizing the importance of strong authentication across all devices. When it comes to external storage, like USB drives, both the file and the drive must be protected with a password that meets ONYEN standards, adding an extra layer of security against potential data breaches. For mobile devices running Android or iOS, the recommendation is to use the strongest password possible, recognizing the growing role of mobile technology in research and its associated risks.

A strong password is essential in safeguarding research data, acting as the primary barrier against unauthorized access. Good passwords, characterized by their complexity and uniqueness, are hard for attackers to guess or crack. They are crucial in preventing unauthorized access and are a fundamental part of maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of research data. Strong passwords, especially when paired with other security measures like two-factor authentication, significantly decrease the risk of data breaches. They ensure that sensitive information remains accessible only to authorized individuals, maintaining the trust and ethical responsibility expected in academic research. Promoting the importance of robust password practices among researchers is key to protecting the valuable data that underpins academic work.