Last updated - July 8, 2021
If you have or are considering designing a web page, then WordPress is probably one of your choices. WordPress powers over a quarter of all the websites on the internet and is the most popular content management system (CMS) available.
While WordPress strives to maintain the security of its product, there are vulnerabilities attributed to many aspects of the service. The infiltration of various plugins and brute force attacks constitute many security concerns on WordPress, but other pitfalls are also present.
It is crucial that users understand the importance of taking cybersecurity seriously when it comes to their WordPress accounts and sites. By focusing on a balanced approach to security, users can take defending their WordPress page into their own hands.
A common mistake that users make is refusing to update their WordPress plugins regularly. This simple step is a start toward ensuring your WordPress site is secure against hackers. Here are some other ways to keep your site safe from those looking to abuse the vulnerabilities present on WordPress.
Multi-Factor Authentication
WordPress offers plugins that make two-factor authentication (2FA) possible. This simple security measure can prevent brute force attacks by requiring a confirmation code that is sent to the mobile device of the WordPress site owner.
A brute force attack is the attempt to guess a username and/or password by the process of elimination. Unfortunately, WordPress is vulnerable to such attacks as default settings allow for as many log-in attempts as it takes to get the combination correct. 2FA eliminates simple guessing by generating a unique code for each log-in attempt.
Login Limitations
Speaking of multiple login attempts, it is important to set up login attempt limitations. This will block the IP address of someone attempting multiple logins to your account. These limitations can be controlled using parameters including the number of attempts, the time frame between attempts, and an indication of how long to block the associated IP address.
Use Security Plugins
WordPress offers a variety of plugins for added security. Many of them are available for free. These plugins keep an eye on your site and associated code, alerting users to malware, viruses, or other infiltrations.
Choose Plugins Wisely
Outside of security plugins, it is best to be mindful of what and how many plugins you use. When selecting plugins to use on your site, keep a couple of considerations in mind.
First, choose plugins that are frequently updated and are popular downloads. These plugins are less vulnerable to hackers as the updates often contain security and performance improvements.
Secondly, utilize appropriate plugins but do not go overboard. Having excessive plugins associated with your site can lead to more security vulnerabilities and could also slow the performance of your site.
Keep in mind that if you update WordPress or use the automatic core updates coding, some plugins may have an adverse reaction and break your site. This is yet another reason why it is imperative to use popular and often updated plugins.
SSL Certificate
The secure sockets layer protocol allows you and those visiting your site the security of encryption between your site and customer. If your site processes transactions involving finances, it is essential to have an SSL certificate. Some hosting services offer this benefit for free but even paying for it is well worth the investment in advanced security for e-commerce sites.
Protect Mobile Logins
Logging in to unprotected networks can be a dubious and dangerous task. However, many WordPress users work while on the go and log in at coffee shops and airports all the time. If you find yourself in need to log in from your Android device, for example, consider protecting your data with a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
The VPN encrypts the data from your device to its server, making your Android less vulnerable to a hacker who might be attacking an unprotected public network. If you find yourself frequently needing to access WordPress on unprotected networks, then a VPN is a vital piece to the security of your site.
Conclusion
Hackers always seem to stay one step ahead of cybersecurity features. However, it is possible to make malicious attacks on your WordPress account less likely. Making life difficult on a hacker might encourage them to move on to a site that is easier to infiltrate. Following the simple recommendations above could be the difference between security and a ruined WordPress site.
