Password Management at PVAMU: How to Create, Reset, and Protect Your Account Credentials

Intended Audience: Students, Faculty, and Staff

Summary

Password management is a critical part of protecting your Panther account. At PVAMU, strong passwords and passphrases help safeguard sensitive information, reduce cybersecurity risks, and ensure smooth access to academic and administrative systems. This guide provides the steps to reset your password, create strong credentials, and adopt best practices for ongoing account protection.

Problem

Weak or reused passwords are among the leading causes of compromised accounts. Students, faculty, and staff often face challenges such as forgotten passwords, expired credentials, or account lockouts. Without proper management, credentials can be stolen, leading to phishing, data breaches, and interruptions in university services.

Solution

PVAMU provides secure self-service password reset tools and requires Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) through Microsoft Authenticator. By creating strong passphrases, updating credentials regularly, and using a password manager, you can reduce the risk of compromise and keep your Panther account safe.

Steps

These steps will guide you through creating and managing your password at PVAMU. Following these guidelines ensures your account remains secure and accessible.

🔄 Resetting Your PVAMU Password

  1. Visit the PVAMU Password Reset Portal.

  2. Enter your PVAMU email address (e.g., username@pvamu.edu).

  3. Verify your identity using Microsoft Authenticator MFA.

  4. Create a new password following PVAMU’s security standards.

  5. Log in with your new credentials.

🔒 Password and Passphrase Guidelines

  • Minimum of 12 characters (16+ recommended).

  • Use a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters.

  • Prefer a passphrase: 4–5 unrelated words separated by symbols (e.g., Panther-Cloud-Orange-Jazz).

  • Do not reuse old passwords or use personal information like names, birthdays, or common words.

💡 Best Practices for Password Management

  • Update your password at least every 6–12 months.

  • Always enable MFA with Microsoft Authenticator.

  • Store credentials securely in a password manager instead of writing them down.

  • Log out of shared or public devices.

  • Immediately reset your password if you suspect compromise.

We Value Your Feedback

Prairie View A&M University is dedicated to improving the way we serve students, faculty, and staff. If you have suggestions on how we can make this article clearer, more helpful, or easier to follow, we welcome your comments. Your feedback helps us enhance our Knowledge Base and provide better support to the Panther community.

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