26 Tactics To Secure Your WordPress Site And Keep Hackers At Bay

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Do you have a WordPress website? Are you concerned about the security of your site? If so, you’re not alone. With the increasing number of cyber threats, website security has become a major concern for website owners. Hacking attempts, malware, and other malicious activities can compromise the integrity of your website, potentially leading to data loss, downtime, or even reputational damage.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to secure your WordPress website and keep it safe from potential threats. In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential WordPress security practices that you need to implement to ensure the protection of your website. But we’ll also take things a step further and introduce you to the power of tools. These tools can take your security measures to the next level, allowing you to implement advanced security techniques that can keep your site and its users safe.

By the end of this article, you’ll be well-equipped to protect your WordPress website from potential harm, using both basic and advanced security measures. So, buckle up and get ready to take your website security to the next level!

Statistics on WordPress Website Security Breaches

WordPress websites are often targeted by hackers due to their popularity. In 2020, over 60% of CMS-targeted attacks were on WordPress websites. The average cost of a data breach in 2020 was $3.86 million, which can be a significant financial burden for any business. Hence, it is essential to secure your WordPress website to avoid becoming a victim of a security breach.

The consequences of a successful attack on a WordPress website can be significant. A study by the University of Maryland found that a cyber attack occurs every 39 seconds on average, with the majority of attacks targeting small businesses. Once a hacker gains access to a website, they can steal sensitive data, deface the website, install malware, or even take the site offline entirely.

These attacks can cause severe damage to a business, including financial loss, damage to reputation, and potential legal issues. That’s why website owners must take their website security seriously by implementing security measures, such as keeping WordPress and plugins up to date, using strong passwords, using security plugins, and regularly backing up their website. By doing so, they can help prevent a security breach and safeguard their website and users from potential harm.

Why Do You Need to Secure a WordPress Website?

WordPress is a popular content management system (CMS) used by millions of websites globally. It’s a flexible and powerful tool that can help you create and manage your website with ease. However, the popularity of WordPress also makes it a common target for hackers who are looking for vulnerabilities they can exploit. That’s why it’s crucial to secure your WordPress website from potential cyber threats.

When a hacker gains access to your website, they can steal sensitive data, such as user information or financial data. They may also install malware, deface your website or take it offline entirely. These can cause significant damage to your business, including revenue loss, damage to your reputation, and potential legal issues.

By implementing security measures, you can prevent hackers from exploiting vulnerabilities in your WordPress website. These measures include using strong passwords, keeping WordPress and plugins up to date, using security plugins, and regularly backing up your website. By taking these steps, you can safeguard your website, protect your data and your users, and maintain your online reputation. Remember, prevention is better than cure, so don’t wait until you become a victim of a cyber attack to take your website security seriously.

What are some common WordPress Security issues?

WordPress security issues can vary, and they can be caused by different factors, including outdated software, weak passwords, vulnerable plugins or themes, or human error. Some of the most common WordPress security issues include:

Outdated software: Failing to update WordPress or its plugins and themes can leave your website open to security vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit.
Weak passwords: Using weak or easily guessable passwords can leave your website open to brute-force attacks, where hackers use automated tools to try and guess your login credentials.
Vulnerable plugins or themes: Using outdated or poorly coded plugins or themes can introduce security flaws into your website, which hackers can exploit to gain unauthorized access.
Human error: Accidentally sharing sensitive information, such as login credentials, or failing to follow good security practices, such as backing up your website, can also leave your website open to security threats.

To mitigate these security issues, website owners should prioritize keeping their WordPress website up to date, using strong and unique passwords, avoiding vulnerable plugins and themes, and regularly backing up their website. They should also follow good security practices, such as monitoring their website for security issues, limiting access to sensitive data, and ensuring that all users have appropriate levels of access. By taking these measures, website owners can help prevent security breaches and protect their websites and users from potential harm.

Is WordPress Easily Hacked?

WordPress is a popular and well-established content management system (CMS) used by millions of websites worldwide. While it is not inherently vulnerable, like any other software, it can be vulnerable to security issues if not appropriately secured. So, is WordPress easily hacked? The answer is that it depends on the security measures you have in place.

What happens if my WordPress site isn’t secure?

If your WordPress website is not secure, it can leave you vulnerable to a range of potential threats, including data theft, website defacement, and even a complete website takedown. Hackers can use a variety of methods to exploit security vulnerabilities and gain unauthorized access to your website, which can have severe consequences for you and your business.

For example, a hacker might use your website to distribute malware or to send spam emails, causing your website to be blacklisted by search engines and damaging your online reputation. Alternatively, they might steal sensitive information from your website, such as customer data or financial details, leading to financial loss, legal issues, and damage to your reputation.

Additionally, if your website is compromised, it can take a significant amount of time and resources to restore it to a secure state. You might need to hire a security professional or spend hours trying to remove malicious code or recover lost data, which can cause disruption to your business operations and lead to financial loss.

In short, failing to secure your WordPress website can have significant and far-reaching consequences, so it’s essential to prioritize website security and take proactive steps to safeguard your website and users from potential harm.

How do I know if my WordPress site has been hacked?

It can be challenging to detect if your WordPress website has been hacked, as hackers often try to hide their tracks to avoid being detected. However, there are some common signs to look out for that may indicate that your website has been compromised.

One of the most common signs of a hacked website is that your website may start to behave abnormally. For example, you might notice unusual website errors, or your website might start to redirect users to suspicious websites. Your website might also become much slower, or you might start to see a significant increase in spam comments.

Another sign that your website has been hacked is that you might notice unusual changes to your website’s content or appearance. For example, you might find new pages, posts, or comments that you did not create. Or, you might notice that the design or layout of your website has been altered without your knowledge.

Finally, if you have any security measures in place, such as a firewall or security plugin, you might receive alerts or notifications that your website has been compromised. These notifications may include information about suspicious activity or unauthorized access attempts.

If you notice any of these signs or suspect that your website may have been hacked, it’s important to take immediate action to secure your website and protect your users’ data. You might need to hire a security professional, scan your website for malware, or restore a backup of your website to a secure state. The sooner you take action, the less likely you are to suffer significant consequences from the hack.

What do I do if my WordPress site is hacked?

If you suspect that your WordPress website has been hacked, it’s important to take immediate action to prevent further damage and restore your website’s security. Here are some essential steps to take:

Quarantine your website: The first thing you should do is take your website offline to prevent hackers from accessing it. This step is critical because it will prevent the hackers from causing any further damage.
Identify the problem: Once your website is offline, you should try to identify the source of the hack. Check your website’s files, directories, and databases for any suspicious or unauthorized changes. If you can identify the source of the hack, it will be easier to fix the problem.
Fix the problem: Once you have identified the problem, you need to take steps to fix it. This might include removing malicious code or files, updating your website’s software, and changing your passwords. If you’re not sure how to do this, it’s a good idea to work with a security professional who can help you identify and fix the problem.
Restore your website: Once you have fixed the problem, you can restore your website to a secure state. If you have a backup of your website, you can use it to restore your website to the state it was in before the hack. Make sure to update your website’s software and plugins to the latest versions to prevent future attacks.

In conclusion, if your WordPress website is hacked, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage and restore your website’s security. Working with a security professional can help you identify and fix the problem more effectively and quickly, minimizing the damage caused by the hack. Remember that preventing hacks is much easier than fixing them, so it’s crucial to prioritize website security and take proactive steps to protect your website and users from potential harm.

General Best Practices to Secure Your WordPress site

WordPress is one of the most popular content management systems in the world, powering over 40% of all websites on the internet. However, with great popularity comes a higher risk of security breaches, as hackers target WordPress websites in search of vulnerabilities. Securing a WordPress website is essential to protect both the website and its users’ data from potential harm.

Fortunately, there are several best practices you can follow to secure your WordPress website and reduce the risk of security breaches. By following these 26 practices you can significantly reduce the risk of a security breach and ensure that your website remains safe and secure. In this article, we’ll explore each of these best practices in more detail and provide tips on how to implement them effectively.

Get WordPress Hosting That’s Safe & Secure

If you’re planning to build a website using WordPress, it’s essential to choose a hosting provider that offers safe and secure hosting. This is because website security is a critical component of your website’s success, and it’s the hosting provider’s responsibility to provide a secure environment for your website. When you choose a hosting provider, you want to ensure that their servers are protected against malware, viruses, and other types of attacks.

The hosting provider should also provide regular updates and patches to keep the server and its software up to date. Additionally, the hosting provider should offer backup services to ensure that your website’s data is safe in case of any security breaches or data loss. It’s also essential to choose a hosting provider that offers reliable technical support that is available 24/7 to assist you in case of any issues.

Use The Latest PHP Version

PHP is a popular scripting language used by many web applications, including WordPress.Each new version of PHP comes with security improvements and bug fixes. By using the latest PHP version, you can ensure that your website is protected against the latest security threats and vulnerabilities. It’s important to note that using an outdated version of PHP can leave your website open to attacks, as security vulnerabilities can be exploited by malicious actors.

In addition to security benefits, using the latest PHP version can also improve website performance and compatibility with new plugins and themes. WordPress regularly updates its minimum PHP version requirements to ensure that users can take advantage of new features and improvements. Therefore, it’s recommended that WordPress users keep their PHP version up-to-date to ensure optimal security and performance.

Disable PHP Error Reporting

PHP error reporting is a feature that allows developers to identify and troubleshoot coding issues on their websites. While this can be helpful during the development process, having error reporting enabled on a live website can pose a security risk. Hackers can use error messages to gain insight into the structure of a website, which can help them identify vulnerabilities to exploit.

To prevent this, it’s important to disable PHP error reporting on your live WordPress website. This can be done by modifying the website’s configuration files, either through the hosting provider’s control panel or via FTP access. By disabling error reporting, you prevent sensitive information from being displayed to unauthorized users, reducing the risk of an attack.

To disable PHP error reporting in WordPress, you can add the following code to your website’s wp-config.php file:

// Disable error reporting 
ini_set('display_errors', '0');
define('WP_DEBUG_DISPLAY', false);

The first line of code disables error reporting by setting the display_errors value to 0. The second line of code disables the display of error messages in WordPress by setting the WP_DEBUG_DISPLAY constant to false.

It’s important to note that modifying the wp-config.php file can have a significant impact on your website’s functionality, so it’s recommended to make a backup of the file before making any changes. If you’re not comfortable editing the file yourself, you may want to consider seeking the help of a professional developer.

Restrict WordPress admin Access Using the .htaccess File

The WordPress admin panel is a critical part of your website where you can manage your content, install updates and plugins, and configure settings. However, it’s also an area that’s vulnerable to attacks from hackers. One way to improve the security of the admin panel is to restrict access to it using the .htaccess file.

To restrict access to the WordPress admin panel, you can add the following code to your .htaccess file:

<Files wp-login.php>
order deny,
allow
allow from xx.xx.xx.xx
deny from all
</Files>

This code will restrict access to the wp-login.php file, which is used to access the WordPress admin panel. Only users with the specified IP address (xx.xx.xx.xx) will be able to access the file, while all other users will be denied access.

It’s important to note that the IP address specified in the code should be the IP address you use to access the WordPress admin panel. To find your IP address, you can simply search “what is my IP” on Google or visit a website like whatismyip.com.

By using this code, you can add an extra layer of security to your WordPress website by restricting access to the admin panel.

Harden wp-config.php File

The wp-config.php file is a critical part of your WordPress website. It contains sensitive information like your database credentials, authentication keys, and other configuration settings. As a result, it’s important to take steps to secure this file and prevent unauthorized access.

One way to harden the wp-config.php file is to move it to a directory outside the web root. This prevents anyone from accessing the file directly through a web browser, even if they know the file path. To move the wp-config.php file to a new directory, simply create a new directory outside the public_html directory and move the wp-config.php file to that directory. Then, update the file path in your WordPress installation by modifying the ABSPATH constant in your wp-config.php file.

Another way to harden the wp-config.php file is to add additional security measures to the file itself. For example, you can define a unique secret key for your WordPress installation by adding the following code to your wp-config.php file:

define('AUTH_KEY', 'put your unique phrase here');
define('SECURE_AUTH_KEY', 'put your unique phrase here');
define('LOGGED_IN_KEY', 'put your unique phrase here');
define('NONCE_KEY', 'put your unique phrase here');
define('AUTH_SALT', 'put your unique phrase here');
define('SECURE_AUTH_SALT', 'put your unique phrase here');
define('LOGGED_IN_SALT', 'put your unique phrase here');
define('NONCE_SALT', 'put your unique phrase here');

This code will define a unique set of secret keys and salts that are used to encrypt and decrypt data on your website. By using unique keys and salts, you can make it harder for attackers to access your website’s data.

By taking these steps to harden the wp-config.php file, you can improve the security of your WordPress website and protect your sensitive data from unauthorized access.

To secure the wp-config.php file using the .htaccess file, you can add the following code to your .htaccess file

<Files wp-config.php>
order allow,deny
deny from all
</Files>

This code will deny access to the wp-config.php file to anyone trying to access it directly through a web browser. This file contains sensitive information like your database credentials, so it’s important to keep it secure.

Change the Default WordPress Database Prefix

By default, WordPress assigns a prefix of “wp_” to all database tables used by the site. While this is convenient, it can also make your site vulnerable to attacks. Changing the default prefix makes it harder for hackers to exploit vulnerabilities in your site.

To change the default WordPress database prefix, you can use a plugin called “Change DB Prefix“. First, install and activate the plugin from the WordPress plugin repository. Once activated, go to the plugin settings page and choose a new prefix for your database tables. It’s recommended to use a combination of letters, numbers, and underscores, and to make the prefix at least eight characters long. After you’ve chosen your new prefix, click the “Save Changes” button.

If you prefer to change the database prefix manually, you can do so by editing the wp-config.php file in the root directory of your WordPress installation. Look for the line that starts with “$table_prefix” and change the value to your new prefix. Remember to save the file before closing it.

// Using the Change DB Prefix plugin:
1. Install and activate the "Change DB Prefix" plugin
2. Go to the plugin settings page and choose a new prefix for your database tables
3. Click the "Save Changes" button
// Manually changing the database prefix:
1. Open the wp-config.php file in the root directory of your WordPress installation
2. Look for the line that starts with "$table_prefix"
3. Change the value to your new prefix
4. Save the file

Manage File Permissions in WordPress hosting

To keep your WordPress site secure, it’s important to manage file permissions correctly. File permissions determine who can access and modify files on your server. If file permissions are set incorrectly, hackers can gain unauthorized access to your site and cause damage.

The recommended file permission settings for WordPress are as follows:

Directories should have permissions of 755 or 750. Files should have permissions of 644 or 640. wp-config.php should have permissions of 600. The wp-content directory should have permissions of 775 or 770.

To change file permissions, you can use an FTP client or your hosting control panel. Using an FTP client, navigate to the file or directory you want to change and right-click on it. Choose “File Permissions” or “Permissions” from the context menu. Enter the appropriate permission settings and click “OK” or “Apply”.

Alternatively, you can use a command-line interface to change file permissions. Use the “chmod” command followed by the appropriate permission settings. For example, to set the permissions for a file to 644, use the following command: chmod 644 filename.

It’s important to note that changing file permissions can affect the functionality of your site. Always make a backup of your files before changing permissions and test your site thoroughly after making any changes.

Install SSL Certificate

An SSL certificate is a security protocol that establishes a secure encrypted connection between a web server and a web browser. This connection ensures that all data transmitted between the two is kept private and secure. Installing an SSL certificate on your website is essential to protect sensitive information such as login credentials, personal data, and payment information.

To install an SSL certificate on your website, you need to obtain a certificate from a trusted certificate authority. You can obtain an SSL certificate from your web hosting provider, or from a third-party certificate authority such as Let’s Encrypt. Once you have obtained a certificate, you can install it on your server.

The specific steps for installing an SSL certificate depend on your web hosting provider and the type of certificate you are using. In general, you will need to generate a certificate signing request (CSR) and provide it to the certificate authority. The certificate authority will then issue a certificate, which you can install on your server. You may need to update your website configuration to use HTTPS instead of HTTP.

After you have installed an SSL certificate, you can test it by visiting your website using HTTPS. Your web browser should show a padlock icon indicating that the connection is secure. You can also use an online SSL checker to verify that your certificate is installed correctly.

Add a CDN-level firewall

A Content Delivery Network (CDN) is a network of servers that distribute content to users from locations closer to them, improving website performance and reducing load times. A CDN can also provide additional security features, such as a firewall that blocks malicious traffic before it reaches your website. This type of firewall is known as a CDN-level firewall.

Adding a CDN-level firewall can enhance your website’s security by filtering out malicious traffic and protecting your site from Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. A CDN-level firewall works by intercepting incoming traffic and analyzing it for malicious activity. It can then block any suspicious requests before they reach your website, keeping your site safe from harm.

To add a CDN-level firewall, you need to choose a CDN provider that offers this feature. Some popular CDN providers that offer firewall protection include Cloudflare, Akamai, and Amazon CloudFront. Once you have signed up for a CDN service, you can configure the firewall settings to meet your needs. This may include setting rules for specific types of traffic, blocking specific IP addresses or countries, and configuring rate limiting to prevent DDoS attacks.

Adding a CDN-level firewall can significantly improve your website’s security and performance. It can also provide additional features such as SSL certificate support and content caching to further optimize your site. By selecting a reputable CDN provider and configuring the firewall settings correctly, you can protect your website from a wide range of threats.

Update WordPress Version Regularly

Updating your WordPress site regularly is essential to ensure that your site remains secure and performs optimally. Failing to update your WordPress site can leave your site vulnerable to hacking attempts, malware infections, and other security risks.

To update your WordPress site, you need to log in to the WordPress dashboard and check for available updates. You can do this by navigating to the Updates page and clicking on the “Check Again” button. If there are updates available, you can click on the “Update Now” button to install them. It is recommended to back up your site before updating to avoid any data loss or other issues.

Regularly updating your WordPress site is a simple yet effective way to keep your site secure and up to date. It also ensures that you have access to the latest features and functionality. By staying on top of WordPress updates, you can provide your visitors with a safe and enjoyable user experience.

Update Theme and plugins Regularly

Updating the theme and plugins on your website is an important task that should be performed regularly. A theme is the visual appearance of your website, while plugins are add-ons that add extra features and functionality to your website. These updates are released to fix bugs, add new features, and improve the security of your website.

Failing to update your theme and plugins could result in vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit. By updating regularly, you can ensure that your website is secure and functioning properly. To update your theme and plugins, you can simply log in to your website’s dashboard and look for available updates. From there, you can follow the prompts to install the updates.

To demonstrate how to update a WordPress plugin, you can follow these steps:

Log in to your WordPress dashboard
Navigate to the Plugins section
Look for any available updates for your plugins
Click the “Update Now” button to initiate the update process
Wait for the update to complete and check your website to ensure that everything is functioning properly.

It is recommended that you perform backups before updating your theme and plugins, as sometimes an update can cause conflicts with other elements of your website. By keeping your website updated, you can ensure that your visitors have a positive experience and that your website remains secure.

Do not use ‘nulled’ WordPress plugins and themes

Using nulled WordPress plugins and themes can be very risky and potentially harmful to your website. Nulled plugins and themes are pirated copies of premium products that are distributed illegally for free. These illegal copies often contain malware and other malicious code that can harm your website, your visitors, and even your reputation.

In addition to the security risks, using nulled products can also lead to legal issues. It is illegal to use pirated software, and if you are caught using nulled plugins and themes, you could face legal action and fines. Furthermore, these illegal copies often come without any support or updates, so if something goes wrong with your website, you’ll be on your own to fix it.

To ensure that you are using safe and legitimate plugins and themes, always download them from reputable sources such as the official WordPress repository or trusted developers’ websites. Additionally, it’s important to regularly update your plugins and themes to ensure that any potential security vulnerabilities are patched.

There is no code to demonstrate here, as it is more of a cautionary message. It’s crucial to always use legitimate and properly licensed plugins and themes for the safety of your website and its visitors.

Install a WordPress security plugin

Installing a WordPress security plugin is a great way to protect your website from potential security threats. These plugins are designed to add extra layers of security to your website and help prevent hacking attempts, malware infections, and other malicious attacks.

There are several WordPress security plugins available, but some of the best ones are:

Each of these plugins offers different security features to protect your WordPress site from various threats, such as malware, brute force attacks, and unauthorized access. It is important to keep in mind that no single security plugin can provide complete protection, so it is recommended to use a combination of these plugins along with best security practices.

To install a WordPress security plugin, you can follow these simple steps:

Log in to your WordPress dashboard
Navigate to the Plugins section
Click on “Add New”
Search for a security plugin of your choice
Once you’ve found a plugin you like, click “Install Now”
Wait for the installation to complete and click “Activate”
Configure the plugin’s settings according to your preferences.

Scan for malware and security issues

Scanning a WordPress website for malware and security issues is the process of checking the website’s files, code, and database for any suspicious activity that could potentially harm the website or its visitors. Malware refers to any software or code that is designed to cause harm, such as viruses, trojans, or spyware. Security issues can include vulnerabilities in the website’s code or configuration that could allow unauthorized access or hacking attempts.

There are several tools and plugins available to help you scan your WordPress website for malware and security issues. These tools use different techniques, such as signature-based scanning, behavioral analysis, and machine learning algorithms, to identify and detect any potential threats. Some popular security plugins for WordPress include Wordfence, Sucuri, and iThemes Security, which offer both free and premium versions with various features such as malware scanning, firewall protection, and security hardening.

Regularly scanning your WordPress website for malware and security issues is crucial to maintaining the security and integrity of your website. It can help you detect and remove any malware or vulnerabilities before they cause serious harm or damage.

Use Secure WP-Admin Login Credentials

Secure WP-Admin login credentials refer to the login details used to access the WordPress dashboard or admin area, which is the main control panel of the website. These login credentials typically consist of a username and a password, which are used to verify the identity of the user attempting to access the admin area.

To ensure the security of your WordPress website, it is important to use secure login credentials for the WP-Admin area. This can include using strong and unique passwords, avoiding common passwords or phrases, and changing your passwords regularly. Additionally, you can use two-factor authentication or multi-factor authentication, which requires an additional verification step such as a code sent to your phone or email.

Never Use The “Admin” Username

When setting up a WordPress site, it’s important to create a strong, unique username and password. One common mistake that people make is using the default “admin” username that comes with WordPress. This can make your site more vulnerable to hacking attempts, as the username is already widely known and can be easily guessed by malicious actors.

To ensure the security of your WordPress site, it’s best to create a new, unique username and password during the setup process. Choose a username that’s not easily guessable, and make sure your password is strong and complex. You can also enable two-factor authentication, which provides an extra layer of security by requiring a unique code in addition to your password to log in. By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of your site being compromised by hackers.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication for WP-Admin

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an important security feature that helps protect your WordPress admin area from unauthorized access. It adds an additional layer of protection to your login process by requiring you to enter an additional code, usually delivered via text message or an authenticator app, in addition to your username and password.

By enabling two-factor authentication for WP-Admin, you can help ensure that only authorized users have access to the back end of your site. Setting up two-factor authentication is a simple process and is highly recommended for any WordPress site, especially those with sensitive information or multiple user accounts.

Not only does it make it harder for unauthorized users to gain access to your site, but it also provides peace of mind knowing that your site is better protected from potential threats. With two-factor authentication enabled for WP-Admin, you can rest assured that your WordPress website will be safer and more secure than ever before.

Limit Login Attempts – Brute-force protection Limit

Login Attempts is a feature that helps protect against brute-force attacks. It prevents unauthorized users from trying to guess a user’s login credentials by limiting the number of attempts they can make in a certain period. This feature is important for any website or application that requires authentication as it reduces the risk of an attacker gaining access to a system.

It also prevents attackers from using automated tools to try and breach security measures, making it harder for them to guess passwords and usernames. Limit Login Attempts can be configured according to the user’s preferences and requirements, allowing them to set time limits, maximum attempts, and other parameters. This feature is essential in providing an extra layer of security on any web-based service.

Change the WordPress Login Page URL

To change the WordPress login page URL, you can use a plugin or manually edit the website’s code. Using a plugin is the easier and recommended option, as it can help you customize the login page URL with just a few clicks. Some popular WordPress security plugins, such as iThemes Security, All In One WP Security & Firewall, and WPS Hide Login, provide this feature.

If you prefer to manually edit the code, you will need to access your website’s files through FTP or a file manager. Then, you can locate and edit the functions.php file in your website’s theme folder. Add the following code at the end of the file:

function custom_login_url(){
    return '[custom-url]';
}
add_filter('login_headerurl', 'custom_login_url');

Replace [custom-url] with the new URL, you want to use. Save the changes and then access the new URL to test if it works correctly.

Log Idle Users Out Automatically

One way to do this is to log idle users out automatically after a certain period of inactivity. This can help prevent unauthorized access to the site if a user forgets to log out, or if their computer is left unattended.

To enable automatic logout, you can install a plugin that offers this feature. There are several options available in the WordPress plugin repository, such as “Idle User Logout” and “Inactivity Auto Sign Out”.

These plugins allow you to set a time limit for inactivity before the user is logged out, and you can also customize the message displayed to users before they are logged out. Additionally, you can set the time limit based on user role, so that administrators have a longer idle time before they are logged out. By implementing automatic logout, you can ensure that your site is secure and protected, even when users are not actively using it.

Use Trusted WordPress Themes and Plugins

When building a WordPress site, it’s important to use themes and plugins that are trustworthy and secure. Using untrusted or poorly coded themes and plugins can make your site more vulnerable to security breaches and performance issues.

To ensure that you are using trusted themes and plugins, it’s recommended to only install them from reputable sources, such as the WordPress plugin and theme repositories. These sources provide access to thousands of free and paid themes and plugins that have been reviewed and vetted by the WordPress community. Additionally, you can check the reviews and ratings of themes and plugins before installing them to see what other users have experienced.

Remove Unused WordPress Plugins and Themes

Having unused WordPress plugins and themes on your site can pose a security risk, as they can be exploited by hackers to gain access to your site. Additionally, unused themes and plugins can slow down your site and make it more difficult to manage. It’s therefore important to regularly remove any themes and plugins that you are not using.

To remove unused themes and plugins, simply navigate to the “Plugins” or “Themes” section of your WordPress dashboard and find the items you no longer need. From there, you can delete them with the click of a button.

Before you delete anything, it’s important to make sure that you are not using any of the features or functions of the plugin or theme that you are about to remove. You can also make a backup of your site before deleting anything, just in case you accidentally delete something that you need. By removing unused themes and plugins, you can improve the security and performance of your site, and make it easier to manage.

Disable file editing in the WordPress dashboard

One of the features of WordPress is the ability to edit files directly from the dashboard. However, this can be a security risk if someone gains unauthorized access to your website.

To disable file editing in the WordPress dashboard, you can add a line of code to your wp-config.php file. This file contains important configuration information for your WordPress installation, so it’s important to make a backup before making any changes. Once you have a backup, open the file and add the following code:

define('DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT', true);

Save the file and upload it to your website. This will disable the file editing feature in the WordPress dashboard, making it more secure. If you ever need to edit your files, you can still do so using an FTP client or file manager in your web hosting control panel.

Disable your xmlrpc.php file

XML-RPC is a protocol used by WordPress to communicate with external services, such as mobile apps or other websites. However, this feature can also be used by attackers to perform brute-force attacks or exploit vulnerabilities in your website’s code. To protect your website from such attacks, it’s recommended to disable the xmlrpc.php file.

To disable the xmlrpc.php file, you can add a few lines of code to your website’s .htaccess file. This file is located in the root directory of your website and can be edited using a text editor or your web hosting control panel. Once you’ve opened the file, add the following code:

<Files xmlrpc.php>
order deny, allow 
deny from all 
</Files>

Save the file and upload it to your website. This will prevent any requests to the xmlrpc.php file from being processed, effectively disabling this feature. If you ever need to re-enable it, you can simply remove the code from the .htaccess file.

Add security headers to WordPress

Security headers can help protect your WordPress website from various attacks, such as cross-site scripting (XSS) and clickjacking. These headers are added to your website’s HTTP response and instruct the user’s web browser to perform certain security-related actions.

To add security headers to your WordPress website, you can use a plugin or add the headers manually to your website’s .htaccess file. The recommended headers to add are:

X-XSS-Protection: This header tells the browser to enable its built-in XSS filter, which can prevent some types of XSS attacks.
X-Content-Type-Options: This header tells the browser to enforce the declared MIME type of a resource, which can prevent some types of attacks that rely on tricking the browser into interpreting a resource in a certain way.
X-Frame-Options: This header tells the browser whether or not to allow your website to be displayed in a frame or iframe on another website, which can prevent clickjacking attacks.

To add these headers manually, open your website’s .htaccess file using a text editor or your web hosting control panel, and add the following lines of code:

Header set X-XSS-Protection "1; mode=block"
Header always set X-Content-Type-Options "nosniff"
Header always set X-Frame-Options "SAMEORIGIN"

Save the file and upload it to your website. This will add the security headers to your website’s HTTP response, helping to protect it from various attacks. You can also use plugins like WP Security Headers to add and manage these headers more easily.

Set up daily backups

Setting up daily backups for your WordPress website is an important task to ensure the safety and availability of your website’s data. In the event of a security breach or technical issue, daily backups can help you quickly restore your website to a previous version, avoiding data loss and minimizing downtime.

There are several options for setting up daily backups for your WordPress website, including using a plugin like UpdraftPlus, a cloud-based backup solution, or your hosting provider’s backup service. Many backup plugins for WordPress offer a simple and automated backup process, allowing you to schedule backups to run daily or at specific intervals, and store the backups in the cloud or on your server. Cloud-based backup solutions can offer more comprehensive features, such as offsite storage and automatic backups, and often provide a higher level of security for your backups.

It’s important to regularly test your backups and verify that you can restore your website from them in case of an emergency. Additionally, it’s a good practice to store multiple versions of your backups, so you have several points in time to restore from. By setting up daily backups for your WordPress website, you can protect your valuable content and ensure your website is always available to your visitors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, keeping your WordPress website secure is essential to protect your website and your visitors from security threats. There are several security measures that you can take to ensure the safety of your website, such as using strong passwords, keeping your plugins and themes up to date, and regularly backing up your website data. It’s also important to have a security plugin installed on your website to help you detect and prevent security breaches.

If you’re concerned about the security of your WordPress website, our WordPress security service can help. We provide comprehensive security solutions to protect your website from potential security threats. Our services include regular security scans, malware removal, firewall protection, and regular software updates. With our service, you can have peace of mind knowing that your website is secure and protected.

Don’t wait until it’s too late to secure your WordPress website. Visit this page to learn more about our WordPress security service and how we can help you keep your website safe and secure.

WordPress Security FAQs

Does WordPress Need a Firewall?

Yes, WordPress needs a firewall. A firewall is a critical security measure that can help protect your website from malicious attacks and data breaches. It acts as an extra layer of defense against hackers and other cyber criminals who are intent on gaining access to your site’s content or stealing sensitive information. With the right firewall in place, you can block suspicious traffic and filter out malicious requests before they reach your server.

Additionally, a good firewall can detect vulnerabilities in plugins and themes and alert you when they need to be updated or replaced. All in all, implementing a reliable web application firewall is an important step in securing your WordPress site from potential threats.

Is Security Plugin Necessary for WordPress?

Security plugins are an essential part of any WordPress website, as they provide an extra layer of protection against malicious attacks and hacking attempts. Security plugins can help to protect your website from hackers by scanning for vulnerabilities, blocking malicious requests, and monitoring activity on your site. They also provide additional features such as two-factor authentication, which adds an extra layer of security to the login process.

Additionally, most security plugins offer regular updates that patch known vulnerabilities and keep your website safe from potential threats. Not only do security plugins help keep your site safe from malicious attacks, but they can also help improve your site’s performance and speed up page loading times. Overall, it is highly recommended to install a security plugin for any WordPress website to maintain optimal security and performance.

How do I secure my WordPress site without plugins?

Securing your WordPress site without plugins is possible, but it requires some technical know-how. First and foremost, you should enable two-factor authentication to protect access to your admin area. You should also make sure that your passwords are strong and unique. Additionally, you should update your WordPress installation and any themes or plugins regularly to ensure that you have the latest security patches.

Finally, if you have access to your server’s configuration files, it’s a good idea to add additional security measures such as limiting IP addresses that can access certain directories or pages on your site. Following these steps will help keep your WordPress site safe and secure without relying on plugins.

How often should I look for malware?

WordPress users should be aware that malware is a real threat to consider when it comes to their websites. How often should you look for malware? The answer is: as often as possible. It is important to run regular scans on your WordPress website, preferably daily. This will help you identify any malicious code that may have been inserted into the code of your website.

Additionally, you should use a reputable security plugin such as Wordfence or Sucuri to protect your WordPress site from potential threats. Security plugins can also detect and alert you to any suspicious activity or changes within your WordPress dashboard. By being proactive and running frequent scans, you can stay ahead of any potential threats to your WordPress site and keep it secure for years to come.

How do I remove malware from my WordPress site?

Removing malware from a WordPress site can be a difficult task, but it is possible. The first step is to take your website offline and disconnect it from the internet. This will help prevent any further damage from being done.

Next, you should use an antivirus program to scan your files for any malicious software. If you find anything, delete it immediately. Additionally, you should remove any suspicious plugins or themes that might have been installed recently.

Finally, make sure your WordPress core is up to date so that any security vulnerabilities are patched against future attacks. Implementing these steps can help keep your site safe and free of malicious software in the future.