Please Note: Password expiration timeframes will not change due to the COVID event. If you receive a message "User must change password on next login," you should do so. However, there is a difference when you are not on an SPPS network. Once you have changed the password, go to start.stpaul.k12.mn.us where you will be asked to change the password. The website works from mobile devices as well. Alternatively, if you are having real trouble, you can drive to an SPPS site and connect to the SPPS Secure network and change your password. You should not have to get out of your car to do so.
Secure Computing Practices
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Computer and system security are the responsibility of all users of district technology resources.
- Use Cryptic Passwords -- Passwords should be something that is not easily guessed, and should contain a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols, and be at least 8 characters in length. All users are required to immediately change the default password assigned when an account is created.
- Secure Your Passwords -- Do not share your password with others, and do not write them down. If a password is compromised, change it immediately.
- Secure Your Workstation -- Shut down, lock, or log off of your computer workstation before leaving your area, and make sure that a secure password is required to wake or start your computer. Use <ctrl><alt><delete> on a Windows machine to lock the computer; Apple Menu Log Out on a Mac to lock or log out of your system. Set your computer and mobile devices to automatically lock when they are not being used.
- Protect and Secure Portable Devices -- Portable electronic devices contain personal and sensitive data, which poses a security risk to both individuals and the district, and have an increased risk of being misplaced or stolen if left unattended. Lock and secure all classrooms and work spaces. Make sure the portable device is locked in or to something permanent. Do not leave portable electronic devices in vehicles or visible in public places.
- Protect Your Information in Online Spaces -- Don't enter personal or sensitive information or data in online spaces unless you are using a trusted, secure web page. Look for https in the URL, which indicates this is a secure connection. Don't share SPPS Apps documents with student or employee data outside of the SPPS domain (@stpaul.k12.mn.us). Don't share sensitive data or information in an email.
- Be Aware of Scams -- Don't give private information to anyone you don't know, or who doesn't have legitimate need to know. Don't respond to emails asking for your password; open attachments from unknown sources; or click on links from unknown or untrusted sources, as all of these methods can be used to steal passwords and sensitive information. The SPPS Technology Services Department will never send out emails asking for your password.
- Use Cryptic Passwords -- Passwords should be something that is not easily guessed, and should contain a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols, and be at least 8 characters in length. All users are required to immediately change the default password assigned when an account is created.
