WordPress is one of the world's most widely used content management systems (CMS), which also makes WordPress websites a frequent target for automated attacks.
However, many WordPress security incidents are associated with outdated software, weak passwords, vulnerable plugins or themes, and poor security practices rather than WordPress itself.
By following essential security best practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of your WordPress website being compromised.
1. Keep WordPress Updated
Always keep your WordPress installation up to date.
WordPress updates may include:
- Security patches
- Bug fixes
- Performance improvements
- Compatibility updates
Using an outdated version of WordPress can leave your website exposed to known security vulnerabilities.
2. Keep Plugins and Themes Updated
Outdated plugins and themes can introduce security vulnerabilities to your website.
We recommend that you:
- Update your plugins regularly
- Keep your themes updated
- Remove plugins and themes you no longer use
- Only install software from trusted developers and reputable sources
Avoid using nulled or pirated plugins and themes. They may contain malicious code, malware, or backdoors that can compromise your website.
3. Use Strong and Unique Passwords
Use strong, unique passwords for every account associated with your website, including:
- WordPress Administrator accounts
- SIRSTEVEHQ Client Area
- Hosting control panel
- FTP or SFTP accounts
- SSH accounts
- Database users
- Email accounts
Avoid using the same password across multiple services. Using a password manager can also make it easier to create and securely store unique passwords.
4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) wherever it is available.
2FA adds an additional layer of security by requiring a verification code or another authentication method in addition to your password.
This can help protect your account even if your password is compromised.
5. Use a Reputable WordPress Security Plugin
A reputable WordPress security plugin can provide additional protection and monitoring features, such as:
- Malware scanning
- Login protection
- Firewall functionality
- File integrity monitoring
- Brute-force protection
- Security notifications
Choose a security plugin that is actively maintained and obtained from a trusted source.
6. Use HTTPS and a Valid SSL Certificate
Always secure your WordPress website with HTTPS.
An SSL certificate enables encrypted communication between your website and its visitors. This helps protect information transmitted through your website, including login credentials and contact form submissions.
HTTPS also helps establish trust with your visitors and is an important part of modern website security.
7. Limit Administrator Access
Only give administrator privileges to users who genuinely need them.
Regularly review your WordPress user accounts and:
- Remove inactive users
- Delete unknown or unnecessary accounts
- Assign the lowest appropriate user role
- Review account activity where available
Limiting administrative access reduces the number of accounts that could be used to make unauthorised changes to your website.
8. Back Up Your Website Regularly
Regular backups are essential for recovering your website after accidental data loss, malware infections, or security incidents.
We recommend:
- Creating a backup before major updates
- Keeping multiple backup copies where possible
- Storing backups securely
- Regularly checking that your backups can be restored
A recent backup can significantly simplify the recovery process if your website needs to be restored.
9. Protect Your WordPress Login
WordPress login pages are frequently targeted by automated brute-force attacks.
To improve login security:
- Limit repeated login attempts
- Enable CAPTCHA where appropriate
- Use Two-Factor Authentication
- Avoid using easily guessed usernames such as "admin"
- Use strong and unique administrator passwords
These measures can help reduce unauthorised login attempts.
10. Keep Your PHP Version Updated
Using a supported PHP version helps improve the security and performance of your WordPress website.
Older PHP versions may contain security vulnerabilities that are no longer receiving security updates.
Before changing your PHP version, make sure your WordPress installation, plugins, themes, and custom code are compatible with the version you plan to use.
11. Monitor Your Website Regularly
Regularly check your website for signs of suspicious activity, including:
- Unknown administrator accounts
- Unexpected file changes
- Malware warnings
- Unauthorised redirects
- Unexpected plugin or theme installations
- Spam content
- Unusual website behaviour or performance changes
Early detection can make it easier to investigate and resolve security issues.
12. Scan Your Website for Malware
Regular malware scans can help identify malicious files or suspicious activity.
On supported SIRSTEVEHQ hosting environments, Imunify360 provides server-level security and malware detection capabilities. You can also use a reputable WordPress security plugin for additional website-level scanning and monitoring.
13. Choose a Secure Hosting Environment
Your hosting environment is an important part of your website's overall security.
SIRSTEVEHQ provides multiple layers of hosting security, including infrastructure protection, firewall technologies, and malware detection capabilities.
However, website owners are still responsible for securing their WordPress installations, including keeping WordPress, plugins, themes, and custom code updated and properly configured.
What Should I Do If My WordPress Website Is Hacked?
If you believe your WordPress website has been compromised, take action as soon as possible.
We recommend:
- Changing your passwords
- Scanning your website for malware
- Removing malicious files or code
- Updating WordPress, plugins, and themes
- Removing unknown administrator accounts
- Restoring a clean backup, if available
- Reviewing your hosting and website access credentials
- Opening a support ticket if you require assistance
The sooner a compromised website is identified and investigated, the easier it may be to contain the issue and restore normal operation.
Need Help Securing Your WordPress Website?
If you have questions about WordPress security or believe your website may have been compromised, open a support ticket from your SIRSTEVEHQ Client Area.
Please include:
- Your domain name
- A description of the issue
- Any error messages or security warnings
- When you first noticed the issue
- Any recent changes made to your website
Our Support Team can investigate whether the issue is related to your hosting environment and provide guidance on the appropriate next steps to help strengthen your WordPress website's security.
