With technology becoming much more accessible than before, most businesses have moved to the digital world. New websites are constantly being added to the internet, and a significant portion of them are WordPress sites. WordPress is an open-source software with an easy-to-use interface and a secure system. However, encountering malicious individuals in the digital world is still possible. While you might think that WordPress security measures are sufficient, knowing certain points to follow will increase your security and prevent leaving any doors open for hackers.
What are WordPress Security Measures?
- Keeping WordPress Up-to-Date: WordPress updates automatically, but some updates may require manual installation. To ensure the security of your site, you should keep track of these updates and keep your themes and plugins up-to-date.
- Having Strong Passwords: The primary measure to protect a site is, as we all know, passwords. One of the fundamental WordPress security measures is to use passwords that are difficult to guess. A common mistake made by users is opting for simple passwords for easy remembrance. A strong password should include upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols. Also, the passwords for hosting, FTP, and all email accounts linked to your site should be strong.
- Choosing a Good Hosting Service: The hosting service is crucial for the security of your website. Opting for reputable and leading hosting companies ensures the security of your site. With a good hosting service, your website is monitored for threats, and there is a clear plan for the tools and data to be used in case of a possible attack.
- Having the Latest PHP Version: For your WordPress plugins to work compatibly, the PHP version should be up-to-date. This is also effective for site speed and security.
- Being Careful with Themes and Plugins: WordPress offers many paid and free themes and plugins. However, downloading license-free and pirated themes from unreliable sources might seem good at first glance, but they might contain hidden malicious code. While trying to use a theme the cheap way, you might end up losing all your data.
- Using SSL: Using Secure Socket Layer (SSL) protects all password and payment information from unwanted interference and unauthorized access.
- Adding Your Site to Google Search Console: Adding your site to Google Search Console provides convenience in many aspects and is also necessary for security. Google Search Console informs you about any security issues on your site.
- Changing the Admin Username: When you first set up your WordPress site, it assigns you the username “admin.” If you don’t change the username, it makes it easier for someone who wants to steal your site. Therefore, replace the “admin” designation with a unique administrator name.
Why are WordPress Security Measures Important?
If your WordPress site is attacked by hackers, it can cause damage to your business revenue and reputation. These individuals can obtain your password and login information, steal your visitors, and send harmful software to your site and computer, causing significant harm. They might even demand a large sum of money to give your site back. If your WordPress site is related to your business and generates income, implementing WordPress security measures is essential to avoid such attacks.
