Why WordPress Security is an Uncompromising Strategy
Web Hosting Blog
Content Management Systems (CMS) are commonly used by many businesses to create their own official websites. A popular CMS platform and one of the founders is WordPress. Instead of having to hire a website developer, WordPress allowed users freedom to design their own websites without having to know the ins and outs of code.
Since the rise of CMS among website creators and users, they’ve become a constant target for hackers. So, word to the wise, if you own a WordPress-powered website, solid security practices are critical.
The Security in WordPress
WordPress is very secure so long as the WordPress security practices and rules are strictly observed. The rest depends on the user, which introduces the human error factor. Since WordPress supplies services to 25% of all active websites, security weaknesses are unavoidable because not all users are cautious, thorough, or security conscious. If a hacker can compromise any of the 700 million WordPress websites, they can certainly scan for other websites that are also running insecure setups of old or weak versions of WordPress and hack those, too.
WordPress Security Threats
Any website can be compromised anytime, but security issues happen before and after your website has been compromised. It’s all about gaining access to your account credentials. With that, they can do whatever they want on your website. They can inject unwanted code, malware and vandalize your website.
Here are your most common hacker threats:
Brute Force Attacks
Brute force attacks, just like what its name suggests, is a trial and error method of entering multiple usernames and password combinations over and over until a successful combination is discovered. They simply want to get your login combinations to control your WordPress account. By default, WordPress doesn’t limit login attempts and you won’t be notified. Even if a brute force attack is unsuccessful, it can still harm your server, as login attempts can overload your system. While you’re under a brute force attack, some hosts may suspend your account, especially if you’re on a shared hosting plan, due to system overloads.
File Inclusion Exploits
File inclusion exploits happen when the vulnerable code is used to load remote files that allow attackers to gain access to your website. File inclusion exploits are one of the most common ways an attacker can gain access to your WordPress website’s wp-config.php file, one of the most crucial files in your WordPress installation.
SQL Injections
Your WordPress website uses a MySQL database to operate. SQL injections happen when a hacker gains access to your WordPress database and to all your website data. With an SQL injection, a hacker can create a new admin-level user account. Then, it can be used to log in and get full access to your WordPress website. SQL injections can also be used to insert new data into your database, including links to inappropriate or spam websites.
Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
Cross-Site Scripting permits a hacker to place malicious Javascript code on your website. This is capable of reading data identifying infected page site users. Using those data, the hacker can impersonate users and possibly gain access to their accounts.
Malware
Malware, a.k.a. malicious software, is code that is used to get unauthorized access to a website to gather sensitive data. A hacked WordPress site usually means malware has been inserted into your website’s files, so if you suspect malware on your site, look at recently changed files.
Cwatch Web—Complete Security for Your WordPress Website
In the vast sea of website security tools, cWatch Web offers the most efficient features for businesses. This cloud-based Security-as-a-Service solution provides an affordable way to protect against malware, Dedicated Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks and much more while improving website performance.
It combines a Web Application Firewall (WAF) provisioned over a Secure Content Delivery Network (CDN). It includes round-the-clock monitoring by aCyber Security Operation Center (CSOC) staffed with a team of certified security analysts powered by a Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) that leverages data from over 85 million endpoints to detect and mitigate threats before they occur.
Here’s a quick summary of cWatch Web’s key benefits:
Cyber Security Operations Center (CSOC)
Gain access to a team of always-on certified cybersecurity professionals providing 24x7x365 surveillance and remediation services.
Security Information & Event Management (SIEM)
Boost protection with advanced intelligence that leverages current events and data from 85M+ endpoints and 100M+ domains.
Secure Content Delivery Network (CDN)
Leverage a global system of distributed servers to boost the performance of websites and web applications.
PCI Scanning
PCI Scanning enables merchants and service providers to stay in compliance with PCI DSS.
Malware Monitoring & Remediation
Proactively identify malware and have ready access to tools and methods to remove it and help prevent future malware attacks.
Stay Ahead of Hackers with cWatch Web
You have a business to run, so having a complete website security solution that does the work for you lets you focus on growth and taking care of customers. All you need to do is install cWatch Web on your website. It does the rest. Save time and money, and reduce risk, starting now with a free cWatch Web test.