WordPress can be an outstanding and user-friendly web development platform, but like any other such platform, it is not completely immune to security issues.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of security problems that happen with WordPress:
- Brute force attacks: Brute force attacks are not particularly sophisticated, but they can be effective. They involve repeated trial and error entering of username and password combinations until a successful combination occurs. Even if the attack is unsuccessful at finding a combination, it could still put a major strain on your server.
- File inclusion exploitation: These issues result from weaknesses in your PHP code. In such an instance, vulnerable code loads remote files that allow attackers to access your site.
- SQL injections: WordPress websites use MySQL databases to function. An SQL injection happens if an attacker somehow gains access to this database. Attackers are able to make new administrative accounts to log in and take control of your site.
- Malware: There are thousands of types of malware that could affect your WordPress site, the most common of which include malicious redirects, backdoors, pharma hacks and drive-by downloads.
Preventing these security vulnerabilities
The specific strategies you use to prevent and repair security vulnerability issues vary depending on the specific circumstances you face, but there are some steps you can take that will, as a general rule of thumb, limit the potential damage that could be caused by such vulnerabilities.
For example, many security issues are resolved by simply creating a stronger password. Weak passwords are the source of many vulnerabilities and are easily cracked by brute force hacking. Use multiple types of characters, symbols and numbers, and do not use the same password anywhere else.
You should also make sure to always keep your version of WordPress, as well as all used plugins and themes, updated to their latest version. You can set these updates to install automatically. Many times, these updates contain important security upgrades that will prevent problems with your website from occurring.
Never download a theme or a plugin from a questionable source. Look for plugins from the WordPress.org directory, and plugins that have been reviewed and downloaded by large numbers of people.
By engaging in these practices, you can prevent or limit the security vulnerabilities that exist to your site, and in turn, the opportunities for attackers to capitalize on them.
For more information, contact us today at IDMI.Net.