Most website attacks aren't targeted. Automated bots scan millions of sites looking for outdated software, weak passwords and known vulnerabilities. Closing those easy doors stops the vast majority of problems.
1. Keep everything updated
Update your CMS core, themes and plugins regularly. Most compromises exploit vulnerabilities that already have a fix available. Remove plugins you no longer use.
2. Use strong, unique passwords and 2FA
Use a password manager and enable two-factor authentication on your hosting account, CMS admin and domain registrar. Your domain account is especially important: whoever controls it controls your website and email.
3. Always use HTTPS
An SSL certificate encrypts traffic between visitors and your site. Free certificates are standard now; make sure your site redirects all traffic to HTTPS.
4. Keep backups you can restore
Backups should be automatic, stored away from your website's server, and tested occasionally. A backup you've never restored is a backup you can't fully trust.
5. Limit who has access
Give each person their own login with only the permissions they need. Remove accounts when people leave or projects end.
6. Put a firewall in front of your site
A web application firewall blocks common attack patterns before they reach your application. Many hosts include one at the server level.
7. Watch for warning signs
- Unexpected admin users or changed passwords
- New files you didn't upload
- Search results showing spam pages on your domain
- Sudden spikes in outgoing email
8. Have a plan for when something goes wrong
Know who to contact, where your backups are, and how to change critical passwords quickly. If your host offers malware scanning and clean-up help, find out how to request it before you need it.
Security is a habit, not a one-off project. A few minutes each month goes a long way.
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