1. Keep WordPress Core, Themes, and Plugins Updated
- Why: Vulnerabilities in outdated WordPress core, themes, or plugins are a common entry point for hackers.
- How: Regularly update WordPress, themes, and plugins. Set up automatic updates for minor core updates and check manually for major updates.Dashboard > Updates > Update Now (for WordPress core).Install a plugin like Easy Updates Manager to manage updates effectively.
2. Use Strong Login Credentials
- Why: Weak passwords and usernames (like "admin") make brute force attacks easier.
- How:Create a unique username (avoid default ones like "admin").Use strong, complex passwords (a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters).Implement a password manager like LastPass or Bitwarden.
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
- Why: 2FA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second form of authentication (e.g., a code sent to your phone).
- How: Use a plugin like Google Authenticator or WP 2FA.
4. Install a Security Plugin
- Why: Security plugins can offer real-time protection against malware, brute force attacks, and other vulnerabilities.
- How: Some recommended security plugins include:Wordfence: A comprehensive firewall and malware scanner.iThemes Security: Provides multiple security features like 2FA and brute force protection.Sucuri Security: A powerful tool for monitoring, scanning, and cleaning malware.
5. Use SSL (HTTPS)
- Why: SSL encrypts data transferred between the server and users, making it harder for hackers to intercept sensitive information.
- How:Obtain an SSL certificate (many hosting providers offer free SSL through Let’s Encrypt).Use the Really Simple SSL plugin to enforce HTTPS across your site.
6. Limit Login Attempts
- Why: Limiting login attempts prevents brute force attacks where hackers try multiple username-password combinations.
- How: Use the Limit Login Attempts Reloaded plugin to limit the number of login attempts from a single IP address.
7. Change the Login URL
- Why: The default WordPress login URL (wp-login.php) is known to attackers, making it easier for them to target your login page.
- How: Use the WPS Hide Login plugin to change your login URL to something unique.
8. Disable XML-RPC
- Why: XML-RPC can be used for brute force attacks and is often unnecessary for most websites.
- How: Disable XML-RPC using a plugin like Disable XML-RPC or add the following code to your .htaccess file:
9. Use a Web Application Firewall (WAF)
- Why: A WAF filters out malicious traffic before it reaches your site.
- How: Wordfence includes a WAF. Alternatively, services like Cloudflare
or Sucuri
provide external firewalls to protect your website.
10. Backup Your Website Regularly
- Why: In case of a successful attack, having regular backups ensures that you can quickly restore your site.
- How: Use backup plugins like:UpdraftPlus: Automates backup and allows easy restoration.BackWPup: Another excellent backup plugin.Ensure backups are stored off-site (e.g., cloud storage like Google Drive or Dropbox).
11. Harden wp-config.php and .htaccess Files
- Why: The wp-config.php file contains sensitive configuration details. Securing it prevents unauthorized access.
- How:Move the wp-config.php file one directory above the WordPress root.Add the following code to your .htaccess file to prevent access:
- You can also protect the .htaccess file itself by adding:
12. Disable File Editing in WordPress
- Why: Disabling file editing prevents attackers from modifying theme and plugin files from the dashboard if they gain access.
- How: Add the following line to your wp-config.php file:
13. Monitor and Scan for Malware Regularly
- Why: Regular malware scans can detect if your site has been compromised.
- How: Use Wordfence or Sucuri for automatic malware scans. Alternatively, use MalCare
for regular scanning and cleaning.
14. Use Strong Hosting Security
- Why: Hosting vulnerabilities can lead to site compromises.
- How: Choose a reliable hosting provider that offers security features such as:Firewalls.Malware scanning.Automatic backups.DDoS protection.Managed WordPress hosting is ideal as it often includes these features by default.
15. Implement Database Security
- Why: The WordPress database stores all your site’s data. If compromised, attackers can cause significant damage.
- How:Change the database prefix from wp_ to something unique during WordPress installation.Ensure your database user has only the required privileges.
16. Disable Directory Browsing
- Why: Directory browsing can expose sensitive files to attackers.
- How: Add the following line to your .htaccess file:
17. Regular Security Audits
- Why: Security audits help in identifying weaknesses and outdated security practices.
- How: Use a plugin like iThemes Security or a manual checklist to review your website security periodically.
Summary of Plugins to Secure WordPress
- Firewall and Malware Scanners: Wordfence, Sucuri Security, iThemes Security.
- Backups: UpdraftPlus, BackWPup.
- Login Security: WPS Hide Login, Google Authenticator, Limit Login Attempts Reloaded.
- SSL: Really Simple SSL.
- Malware Removal: MalCare (for premium malware removal).
By implementing these practices, you can significantly reduce the chances of malware infections and hacking attempts.
