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Insecure passwords on Genes emails.

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An Olde Crone

An Olde Crone Report 13 Nov 2006 17:45

JB I put up a very similar thread about this reently, but I don't think I made myself clear on the subject! My GR newsletter contained a prompt of my 8 letter password (I had not asked for a prompt, I use the same password for everything). The prompt was not a clue in the usual fashion, but was my 8 letter word password with asterisks substituted for three of the vowels - not rocket science to work out what the word is. In my case, it doesn't particularly matter - I live alone so the security of my password isn't an issue. But I do occasionally use public service computers. That isn't the point really, though, is it, it is the fact that Genes are flirting with security, by doing this. Unneccessary in my opinion. OC

newsboy

newsboy Report 13 Nov 2006 15:40

GR does allow these symbols.

newsboy

newsboy Report 13 Nov 2006 15:29

Hi Carol, I just went on the Microsoft Password Checker website. My current password strength is rated 'Medium' however if I add an non-alphanumeric symbol, it goes up from Medium to 'Best'. I must check if GR allows non-alphanumerics. JB.

newsboy

newsboy Report 13 Nov 2006 15:09

If you try Google for e.g. Microsoft password, you will get info such as......... (I tried to give the link, but it is not appearing). Email is not a secure form of communication and should not be used for confidential information. It can be accessed by third parties with the correct knowledge. On the GR 'My account details' I have not ticked the box requesting a password reminder, but still get half of the password given to me in clear. This is found in the small print at the foot of the 'New Names' and 'Hot Matches' emails, which I find, in themselves quite useful.

Catherine from Manchester

Catherine from Manchester Report 13 Nov 2006 14:51

so you saying you can see your password on the screen? catherine xx

Nicola

Nicola Report 13 Nov 2006 14:43

Where does it show your password and who can see it? Nicky.x (being a bit thick)

Jess Bow Bag

Jess Bow Bag Report 13 Nov 2006 14:42

But they only send it to you - not anyone else

newsboy

newsboy Report 13 Nov 2006 14:40

I have just received a 'New Names Alert' from GR and 50% of my logon password is given in clear. I had made the password longer consisting 12 characters now GR give 6 of them in clear. My notes on the subject to 'Contact us' have been ignored. Emails as most of us know are not secure. I would advise users to change their passwords frequently. Try checking your email to see if one could make an intelligent guess at your password. E.G. ******fwwas, could be, Mary Had A Little Lamb I'ts Face Was White As Snow.