Security is a priority when maintaining a site and hackers are always trying to find new ways to cause problems. Here’s some tips to keep your WordPress site secure to keep the hackers out.
1. First, hide all of your login error messages. These messages could provide hackers with clues about whether they have figured out your user name and password correctly or incorrectly. Hiding these messages from all unauthorized logins is a good idea and can help ensure a more secure site.
2. It is best to keep backups of your entire WordPress blog just in case the hackers are successful at hacking into it and causing problems. Keeping backup files ensures you will have your site up and running again quickly and that you haven’t lost anything.
3. Another way your WordPress blog might be at risk is if you are using the predictable wp_ prefixes in your database. Changing the default “wp_” prefixes can help keep your site secure. Using the WP Security Scan plugin to check for any compromises that may have occurred.
4. Preventing directory browsing can also help maintain security on your WordPress blog. Keep your WordPress directories protected and make sure they are not accessible to the public. You can do this by entering the following URL in your browser: http://www.domain.com/wp-includes/.
If it shows blank or redirects you back to the home page, then you are safe, but if not, then you are not.
5. One of the easiest ways to keep your WordPress site safe is to simply make sure your files are always current. There are several ways you can do this.
First, deactivate and remove plugins not used. Unused plugins will eventually become outdated and can cause a security risk. It is best to delete them.
Next, you want to log into your dashboard frequently. When an update is available you will see a yellow notification at the top of your dashboard. Log in frequently and keep up to date with the most recent WordPress files and subscribe to WordPress Releases RSS.
10 Must Use Plugins to Improve Your WordPress Security
In today’s technological world, security is a hot topic and crucial to defense against hacking. Website creation tools such as WordPress are particularly vulnerable to attack, given use of outdated plugins and files. These 10 plugins will help you better protect your site from unwanted invasion.
– Ask Apache Password Protect – This plugin functions at the network level and creates a virtual wall, protecting your blog from malicious hackers. Additionally, it features the ability to block spam and other unwanted requests.
– Antivirus – A strong Antivirus is essential. This easy to use plugin will protect against unwanted intruders, including malware and viruses.
– Block Bad Queries – This speedy firewall plugin attempts to block inappropriate URL queries by checking for malicious or lengthy request strings.
– Exploit Scanner – This plugin is a handy tool that will scan your files to determine if they have been subject to malicious hacking or exploitation.
– Limit Login Attempts – This tool has the ability to temporarily block IPs and limit the amount of login requests. It is a strong defense against brute-force hacking.
– Login Encrypt – Good encryption is essential. The Login Encryption plugin boosts the security of your site by using DES and RSA to cipher passwords.
– Login Lockdown – This is an excellent plugin that will limit the amount of login attempts from a specific IP range over a short length of time. The default settings may be modified.
– Stealth Login – Stealth Login creates an extra layer of security with a secret login authorization code, effectively blocking external bot login requests.
– User Locker – Similar to the Login Lockdown. However, rather than timed lockout, this plugin enables you to completely lock or disable a user account.
– WP-DB Manager – This plugin allows you to manage your WP database and features backup, restore, repair and delete options.
