Are WordPress Sites Secure? All Questions Answered!

You are building your dream website, but there’s one big question in your mind: Is WordPress secure? Well, we don’t blame you for that thought! With over 40% of websites powered by WordPress, it’s natural to wonder if your site is safe from hackers. 

There’s a consolation!! WordPress can be very secure. 

Let’s discuss this so you can ensure your WordPress site is locked tight like a vault.

Why Does My WordPress Site Say “Not Secure”?

A “Not Secure” notice on your WordPress website typically indicates that an SSL certificate is lacking. This certificate protects sensitive information by encrypting data between your website and visitors.

Without SSL, browsers and search engines mark your website as dangerous, which may deter users.

How Can It Be Fixed?

• Get a free SSL certificate from your hosting company or buy one.
• To make the process even simpler, use plugins such as Really Simple SSL.

Can a WordPress Site Be Hacked?

Big dilemma!!! Yes, like any other platform, WordPress sites can be hacked. However, most hacks occur due to user errors, outdated software, or weak security measures – not because WordPress itself is insecure.

Common Ways WordPress Sites Are Hacked:

• Weak passwords.
• Outdated plugins or themes.
• Using nulled (pirated) themes or plugins.
• Poor hosting security.

Are WordPress Sites Secure from Hackers?

WordPress offers solid security features, but no website is 100% hack-proof. 

However, you can make your site extremely hard to break into with the right practices. Think of WordPress as a secure house – but you need to lock the doors, close the windows, and maybe add an alarm system. Wink-wink!!

Read More: WordPress Security Audit

How to Secure Your WordPress Site from Hackers?

Let’s give you an insider scoop on saving your website from hackers! Here’s how you can make sure your WordPress site stays secure:

1. Use Strong Passwords

Don’t leave your password under the mat! A strong password is your first and best defence against hackers. 

Forget simple passwords like “admin123” or “password” (seriously, who’s still using those?). Instead, use a combination of capital and lowercase characters, numbers, and symbols to construct a password that is as distinctive as your favorite movie phrase.

2. Update Everything

Outdated plugins, themes, and WordPress versions are like leaving your windows open during a storm. 

What to Update:

• WordPress core (always update to the latest version).
• Themes (especially the ones you actively use).
• Plugins (check for updates regularly).

3. Limit Login Attempts

Are you aware that hackers frequently try brute-force password guessing? But here’s the trick: by restricting the number of login attempts, you can halt them in their tracks.

How to Do It:

• Use plugins like Limit Login Attempts Reloaded or Sign-in LockDown.
• Set a reasonable limit (e.g., 3 failed attempts before locking the user out temporarily).

4. Install a Security Plugin

If your WordPress site were a castle, a good security plugin would be the moat filled with hungry alligators. These plugins act as an all-in-one defence system to monitor, block, and clean up threats.

Top Security Plugins:

• Wordfence: Offers a robust firewall and malware scanning.
• Sucuri: Provides a comprehensive security package, including malware removal.
• iThemes Security: It’s ideal for novices with features like file tracking and two-factor authentication.

5. Use Secure Hosting

Your website’s basis is your hosting company. Invest in a host that puts security first since a shaky foundation spells danger. Look for providers that offer:

• Built-in firewalls to block malicious traffic.
• Daily backups to enable site restoration in the event of an emergency.
• Malware scanning and removal tools.

Top Hosts for Security:

• SiteGround
• WP Engine
• Bluehost

Avoid cheap, unreliable hosting. It’s tempting, but security issues could cost you more in the long run.

6. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

A second key, such as a code sent to your phone, will still be required for entry even if your password is stolen.

How to Set It Up:

• Use plugins like Google Authenticator or Authy.
• Enable 2FA for all users, especially admins.

If you are not a fan of codes, some tools allow you to use biometric authentication (like a fingerprint or facial recognition) for an extra layer of coolness and security.

How to Secure a WordPress Site Without Plugins?

You don’t need to rely solely on plugins to secure your site. Here are a few manual steps you can take:

• Change the Default Login URL: Use a custom URL instead of “/wp-admin” to confuse attackers.
• Use .htaccess Rules: Restrict access to important files like wp-config.php.

Wrapping It Up!

Securing your WordPress site doesn’t have to be rocket science. Think of it as giving your website the VIP treatment it deserves. 

Using strong passwords, keeping everything updated, and adding extra security layers like plugins and 2FA? You are telling hackers, “Not today, buddy!” 

But if you need help securing your website, Site Architects are here with the top-notch Web Maintenance services.  

People Also Ask!

How Safe Is a Website on WordPress?

The security of a WordPress website depends on the precautions you take. It can be extremely secure with the right security procedures.

What Percentage of WordPress Sites Are Hacked?

According to a report by Sucuri, around 39% of hacked websites were using WordPress. Most cases were due to outdated software or weak passwords.

Can WordPress Be Trusted?

Yes, WordPress is a trusted platform used by millions of businesses, bloggers, and e-commerce sites worldwide.

How Do I Make Sure My WordPress Site Is Secure?

Follow the steps outlined above, such as using strong passwords, updating regularly, and enabling two-factor authentication.