Write A Password Standard For CSI Documenting Your Password ✓ Solved

Write A Password Standardfor Csi Documenting Your Password

Write a password standard for CSI documenting your password recommendations. Your paper should look like a real policy document and not an academic paper. At the end of the standard, cite one reference for your recommendations. Remember in this exercise that CSI appears to be challenging the old-school 8-character complex password rule. If you wish to challenge that rule yourself, or reinforce that rule and continue to use it, you need to supply at least one reference, and more would make for a more effective argument.

Your citation does not need to be in any formal citation style. Ensure that your citation is good enough to find the reference. This must be an original work. Do not rely on publicly available templates to fill in. Because this is a concise and focused paper, some matching will be detected by the SafeAssign tool.

It is common for subject headers to match previous submissions. You may get a match score in the 30% range. Don't worry about that. I'll be looking for original work in the body of the paper. Bottom line - you're a creator, not an editor.

Read examples of password standards online. Some organizations may call them password policies, which is confusing, but that 'policy' will focus on specifics on how to put a proper password together. You also will find some authoritative recommendations from NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology). Happy Googling.

Paper For Above Instructions

Password Standard for CSI

Effective password management is a critical component in safeguarding sensitive organizational data and systems. The following password standard outlines the recommendations and requirements for creating, managing, and protecting passwords at CSI (Cyber Security Initiative).

1. Purpose

This document outlines the password standard for CSI aimed at establishing a comprehensive framework for secure password practices necessary to protect our information assets. This standard acknowledges concerns raised about traditional password complexity requirements, particularly the outdated administrative rule mandating eight-character passwords.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, and third-party users accessing CSI's information systems and data. Adherence to this password standard is mandatory for maintaining the integrity and security of CSI resources.

3. Password Creation Recommendations

  • Length: The minimum length for passwords should be at least 12-16 characters. Evidence suggests that longer passwords are significantly more secure against brute-force attack strategies (NIST, 2020).
  • Complexity: While the requirement for complex characters (uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols) is seen as less effective, users are encouraged to create passwords that are both complex and memorable rather than adhering to arbitrary complexity rules.
  • Passphrases: Encourage the use of passphrases—longer sequences of words or a complete phrase— which can enhance security by increasing entropy while being easier to remember (NIST, 2017).
  • Avoid Predictable Information: Users should not utilize personal information (e.g., birthdays, names, etc.) easily obtainable or guessable by others. This practice reduces vulnerability to social engineering attacks.

4. Password Management

  • Password Storage: Passwords should be stored securely using a reputable password manager, preferably utilizing strong encryption measures.
  • Periodic Updates: It is recommended that users change their passwords periodically or immediately in response to a security breach or suspicious activity.
  • Unique Passwords: Individuals must use unique passwords for different accounts and applications to prevent a single breach from compromising multiple accounts.

5. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Wherever possible, users are encouraged to enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an additional layer of security beyond just passwords. MFA can be achieved through various means, such as SMS codes, authenticator apps, or biometric verification.

6. Employee Training

Regular training sessions should be conducted to educate employees on the importance of password security and update them on current cybersecurity threats and best practices. Awareness strengthens security 'from the inside out.'

7. Enforcement and Compliance

Compliance with this password standard is mandatory. Non-compliance may lead to disciplinary action, as it poses a significant risk to CSI's data integrity and security. Regular audits will be conducted to ensure adherence to this standard.

8. Conclusion

In acknowledging the evolving landscape of technology and cyber threats, CSI advocates for adaptable password management practices. While the traditional 8-character complex password method had its merits, it is crucial to adopt more contemporary strategies that enhance security and usability without relying on outdated norms. Maintaining a focus on longer and more secure password practices is essential in fortifying our digital defenses.

References

  • NIST. (2017). Digital Identity Guidelines. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Retrieved from https://pages.nist.gov/800-63-3/sp800-63b.html
  • NIST. (2020). Special Publication 800-63B: Digital Identity Guidelines. National Institute of Standards and Technology.

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