Password Policy in eCatalog for Login-Form Authentication


Robust Security Standards for Internal User Management:

When not utilizing Active Directory for authentication, eCatalog supports a comprehensive login-form authentication mechanism that relies on a strong internal password policy. This policy is crucial for safeguarding user accounts by enforcing strict password standards and behaviors.


Key Aspects of eCatalog's Password Policy:


  • Password History:
    • Number of Items: Administrators can specify the number of previous passwords that the system remembers, preventing users from reusing old passwords. This ensures that password changes are meaningful and enhance security.
  • Password Age:
    • Maximum Password Age: Sets the duration after which a password must be changed. For example, setting this to 90 days requires users to update their passwords quarterly.
    • Minimum Password Age: Prevents users from changing their passwords too frequently, which can be a tactic to circumvent the password history requirement. This might be set to a few days to ensure each password is used for an adequate period before a change is allowed.
  • Password Length and Complexity:
    • Minimum Length: Defines the shortest length allowed for passwords, such as 8 characters. A longer minimum length increases security.
  • Complexity Requirements: Ensures passwords meet certain criteria, such as including uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. This complexity rule helps protect against brute-force attacks.
  • Account Lockout Threshold:
    • Lockout After Failed Attempts: Specifies the number of consecutive failed login attempts allowed before the system locks the account, requiring administrative intervention or a defined lockout duration before the account is reactivated. This helps prevent automated password guessing attempts.



Benefits of Implementing a Strict Password Policy:


  • Enhanced Security
    Strong password policies are fundamental to protecting user accounts from unauthorized access, significantly reducing the likelihood of successful breaches.
  • Compliance with Regulations
    Many regulatory frameworks require strict password policies as part of their security guidelines. Adhering to these policies helps ensure compliance with such regulations.
  • Reduced Risk of Data Exposure
    By enforcing changes in passwords and preventing the reuse of old passwords, organizations can mitigate the risks associated with compromised credentials.