Website security might not be something that crosses your mind often, especially if everything is running smoothly. But imagine waking up one day to find your site has been hacked or bombarded with spammy comments from automated programs (bots). It’s not a pleasant experience, but the good news is there are simple steps you can take to secure your WordPress site and keep those pesky hackers at bay.
In 2024, website security remains a critical concern, especially for WordPress sites due to their popularity and frequent updates. While no site can be 100% secure, implementing these DIY measures can significantly enhance your WordPress site’s security and protect it from potential threats. Let’s dive into some easy and effective ways to harden your site and give you peace of mind.
Start with a Clean Computer
Think of your computer as the gateway to your website. If it’s infected with malware, spyware, or viruses, you might be handing over the keys to cybercriminals without even knowing it. Ensuring your computer is clean is the first step toward a secure website.
Most computers come with basic virus detection and removal programs, but why stop there? Bolster your defenses with additional programs like Kaspersky (paid), Avast (free), or AVG (free). These programs offer robust protection and can catch threats that basic programs might miss.
For spyware, Spybot is a fantastic tool. And when it comes to hunting down malware, Malwarebytes is a must-have. These tools are like having a security team watching over your computer, ensuring that when you log into your WordPress site, you’re doing so from a secure device.
Create Strong Passwords
“Password” is the worst password you can have. It’s like leaving your front door wide open. Creating a strong password is crucial for your site’s security.
The Schneier Scheme
One effective method is the “Schneier Scheme.” This involves taking a favorite sentence or phrase and turning it into an acronymic password. For example:
“Children of the Night, what music they make” can become CotN1ght,wMtM.
“‘Cause this is thriller, thriller night And no one’s gonna save you from the beast about to strike” can be turned into CtiT4ri11er,Tn&no1Gs@veuftBatS.
Use a Password Manager
If remembering these complex passwords feels daunting, consider using a password manager. LastPass is a great option that can store and manage your passwords securely. Other excellent password managers include 1Password, Dashlane, and Bitwarden. These tools generate and store complex passwords, making your life easier and your site more secure.
Keep WordPress, Your Theme, and Plugins Updated
Staying up-to-date is a simple yet powerful way to enhance your site’s security. WordPress, themes, and plugins frequently release updates that include important security fixes. Ignoring these updates is like ignoring a leaky faucet – it might seem harmless at first, but it can lead to bigger problems down the road.
Always back up your database and files before updating anything. This ensures that if something goes wrong during the update, you can quickly restore your site to its previous state. Tools like UpdraftPlus and BackupBuddy can help automate this process, giving you one less thing to worry about.
Implement Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Adding an extra layer of security with two-factor authentication (2FA) is one of the best ways to protect your WordPress site. With 2FA, you’ll need to provide a second form of identification (like a code sent to your phone) in addition to your password when logging in.
Plugins like Google Authenticator or Authy make setting up 2FA a breeze. Even if someone gets hold of your password, they’ll still need access to your phone to log in, making it much harder for hackers to infiltrate your site.
Use Security Plugins
Security plugins are like having a security guard for your website. They offer features such as malware scanning, firewall protection, and login security. Some of the best security plugins in 2024 include:
- Wordfence
Provides comprehensive protection with a firewall, malware scanner, and real-time threat defense. - Sucuri Security
Offers security activity auditing, file integrity monitoring, malware scanning, and more. - iThemes Security
Helps secure your site with features like two-factor authentication, malware scanning, and brute force protection.
These plugins can significantly enhance your site’s security, giving you peace of mind knowing your site is protected.
Regularly Back Up Your Site
Regular backups are crucial. Imagine the nightmare of losing all your content because of a hack or a server failure. Regular backups ensure that you can quickly restore your site to its previous state in case of any issues.
Plugins like UpdraftPlus and BackupBuddy allow you to schedule regular backups and store them in secure locations like Google Drive or Dropbox. Set it and forget it, knowing that your site’s data is safe and sound.
Limit Login Attempts
Brute force attacks, where hackers try countless username and password combinations, are a common threat. Limiting login attempts can help prevent these attacks. Plugins like Login Lockdown or Limit Login Attempts Reloaded allow you to set limits on the number of login attempts from a single IP address. Once the limit is reached, the IP address is temporarily blocked from accessing the login page.
Disable File Editing
In WordPress, there’s a built-in file editor that allows you to edit your theme and plugin files from within the dashboard. While convenient, it can be a security risk if accessed by unauthorized users. Disabling file editing is a simple way to enhance your site’s security.
To disable file editing, add the following line to your wp-config.php file:
define('DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT', true);
This small change can prevent potential security breaches and give you one less thing to worry about.
Monitor Your Site
Keeping an eye on your site for any suspicious activity is essential. Plugins like Jetpack or Activity Log can help you monitor changes and potential security issues. Regularly reviewing these logs can alert you to unauthorized access attempts or other security concerns.
Secure Your Hosting Environment
Choosing a reputable hosting provider is crucial for your site’s security. Look for providers that offer robust security features such as daily backups, SSL certificates, and server-level security measures. A secure hosting environment can provide a solid foundation for your site’s security.
Tiki2 Security Services
If you want to take the extra step and further fortify your site against potential attackers, Tiki2 is happy to offer security services for your WordPress site. While we cannot guarantee 100% security for your site — it would be impossible, and anyone who claims otherwise is a liar — we can fortify your site with proven, sensible methods to make it more trouble than it is worth to hack your website. The process takes between one and three hours, depending on the complexity and current state of your site. Give us a call at (361) 596-6094 or contact us to see what we can do for you and your site.
Conclusion
Securing your WordPress site doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By taking a few simple steps, you can significantly enhance your site’s security and protect your valuable content. Start by ensuring your computer is clean, creating strong passwords, and keeping everything updated. Implement two-factor authentication, use security plugins, and regularly back up your site. Limit login attempts, disable file editing, and monitor your site for any suspicious activity. Finally, choose a reputable hosting provider and consider professional security services if you want to go the extra mile.
Remember, website security is an ongoing process. Stay vigilant, keep learning, and adapt to new threats as they emerge. With these tips, you can enjoy a safer, more secure online presence in 2024 and beyond.