Cyber Security Measures

Even with tremendous investments in cyber security, the most prevalent way for hackers and fraudsters to gain access is to exploit human behavior through social engineering or simply uncovering information that hasn't been well protected by a consumer.

We understand it's hard to keep up with all your accounts and your distributed digital footprint, and that's why we have a simple cyber security checklist to help you avoid becoming an easy target for hackers and fraudsters.

• Create long passwords that contain symbols, numbers, and uppercase and lowercase letters
• Don't store your passwords anywhere
• Don't reuse or recycle your passwords
• Don't share your passwords with anyone
• Change your passwords using a randomly generated schedule
• Ensure that your passwords bear no resemblance to former passwords

Multifactor authentication requires additional verifying information to grant access to an account. This gives your accounts an added layer of security. Multifactor authentication can include:

• SMS or email notifications
• Biometric identification
• Tokens

• Be suspicious of any message that asks you to provide personal information. McGriff and BB&T never use emails or text messages to solicit your personal information.
• Hover your mouse over hyperlinks to inspect their true destination
• Make sure you're on the right site before entering personal information - such as your name, address, birth date, Social Security number, phone number or credit card number
• Report suspicious email that claims to be from McGriff or BB&T to lnternetFraud@BBandT.com
• Learn as much as you can about phishing

This gives your accounts an added layer of security. Multifactor authentication can include:

• Your birthdate
• Your street address
• Geotagged photos
• The time you’re away on vacation

• Always keep your device's software updated (use the latest operating system and browser versions available)
• Install security software and keep it up to date
• Download apps from trusted app stores
• Turn off Wi-Fi/file sharing/AirDrop options when not in use
• Avoid working with personal or sensitive data when you're using unsecured, public Wi-Fi

Protect your Social Security cards, passports and birth certificates by storing them in a secure place such as a safe deposit box, and only carry them when you need them for a specific purpose.

This information can be used by an identity thief to commit fraud like taking over your financial accounts, opening new loans and credit cards, and establishing utility services in your name.

When you're done reviewing your paper documents like your receipts, financial statements, or credit card bills, put them in the shredder instead of the trash.

Best practice: Order a free copy once a year from AnnualCreditReport.com(opens in a new tab) and from a different bureau (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) every four months so that you're always covered.

Update your email, mobile phone and mailing address in your McGriff accounts.

If you haven't done so already, set up alerts to keep tabs on your account.