WordPress is user-friendly, flexible, and powers over 40% of the internet. However, its widespread popularity comes with significant security risks. Due to the fact that WordPress is everywhere, it attracts hackers like a magnet, making it a frequent target of malware injections, trial and error hacking and cyberattacks. If you run a WordPress website, investing in proactive security measures is essential.
This guide explores the most critical WordPress security vulnerabilities, their root causes, and practical solutions to protect your site.
1. Weak Passwords
Yes, weak passwords are still a thing and one of the most common ways attackers get into WordPress sites is through reused passwords or weak passwords. The fact that people use easy passwords that they can remember and avoid the hassle of forgetting the password results in them using very basic passwords such as their names or numbers in order or something like admin123.
Problem: Brute force attacks are automated bots that try thousands of username-password combinations proving to be a real threat which may work if your passwords are predictable.
How to avoid:
- Use a password manager
- Use strong, unique passwords with a mix of lowercases, numbers, symbols, uppercases.
- Change the default “admin” username.
- Limit login attempts using a plugin.
2. Outdated Plugins and Themes
WordPress plugins and themes might be incredible, but if not updated regularly they can also be major reasons for being hacked. Old plugins would have some loopholes that allow hackers to enter your system and use your information.
Problem: Developers release updates not only to add features but also to fix security vulnerabilities from previous versions. Ignoring the new WordPress plugin for security would be your own failure as it would allow hackers to find attack vectors.
How to avoid:
- Keep updating all new plugins and themes.
- No point keeping extra plugins that are not in use, delete them.
- Stick to plugins/themes from trusted developers with regular updates and good reviews.
3. Outdated WordPress Core
If you’re operating a previous version of WordPress, you’re compromising your data because primary updates often include crucial security bug fixes. Applying new changes to the WordPress Core secures the website along with enhanced speed, functionality and performance.
How to avoid:
- Enable auto-updates, especially for mini versions.
- Take a full backup before any major update.
- Hosting a provider that manages updates for you is a good strategy, but keep double-checking anyway.
4. Poor Hosting Environment
A weak hosting environment can put your entire site at risk, even if the security of WordPress sites is tight. Shared hosting without proper account isolation puts your site at higher risk of cross-site contamination.
How to avoid:
- Does your host offer daily backups?
- Does your host support the latest PHP version?
- Does your host have regular malware scanning?
- Does your host provide server-level firewalls?
It is advised to choose a host that is popular for WordPress security. Moreover, if you have a tight budget, make sure to select a host that treats security as a priority.
5. Unlicensed Themes and Plugins
Don’t be tempted by free downloads of premium themes and plugins. These pirated (nulled) versions often contain hidden backdoors and malware.
Problem:
- Hidden malicious code can steal user data and compromise your site.
- You won’t be informed of any support or updates.
- They can redirect your traffic elsewhere.
How to avoid:
- Only use plugins and themes from the official WordPress repository or reputable developers.
- There are many high-quality complementary alternatives for cutting costs.
6. No SSL Certificate
Running your WordPress website on HTTP is inviting WordPress security issues. HTTPS encrypts data between your site and the user. Without HTTPS, login credentials and form submissions are transmitted in plain text, making them easy to intercept. Additionally, Google penalizes non-HTTPS sites in search rankings.
How to avoid:
- You can install an SSL plugin like Really Simple SSL.
- Use SSL via Let’s Encrypt, supplied by many hosts.
- Force HTTPS across your entire website.
🔒 WordPress Security Action Plan
Protect your site by completing these essential security tasks. Check off each item as you secure your WordPress installation.
7. File Permissions Are Too Loose
You can set permission settings for WordPress files and folders to keep a check on can view, edit, or run them. Setting overly permissive permissions (like 777) is like leaving your door unlocked—hackers can modify your files at will. Ask your host for help or use an FTP client to adjust permissions.
Safe Defaults:
- Files: 644, means only the owner can read and edit the file while the rest can only read it.
- Folders: 755, means only the owner can read, write and execute the file.
- wp-config.php: 440 or 400,
> 440 means only you and your server can read it
> 400 means only you can read it.
8. Default WP Configurations
Like most software, WordPress comes with default settings that should be changed immediately to prevent exploitation. For example, pages like wp-admin and /wp-login.php are well-known targets, and the default wp_ database prefix is easily guessed. Additionally the directory browsing might be enabled.
How to fix:
- Use personalized data bank labels.
- The login URL should be changed using plugins like WPS Hide Login.
- Turn off directory browsing by adding a simple rule to your .htaccess file.
9. No Backups = Recipe for Disaster
Aside from preventing attacks, the recovery of data is also very important. In case your site gets hacked, you had better keep a backup to avoid starting from scratch.
How to avoid:
- Set automated daily or weekly backups.
- Use plugins like UpdraftPlus, BlogVault, or Jetpack Backup.
- Store backups off-site like Dropbox, Google Drive or pen drive.
10. No Firewall or Malware Scanner
Set up firewalls before being hit and prevent severe damage to your site. You need helpful plugins that block fraudulent IPs, scan malware daily and monitor file changes like;
- Wordfence (free version)
- Sucuri Security
- iThemes Security
11. XML-RPC Exploits
WordPress includes XML-RPC functionality for app integrations, but attackers often exploit it for DDoS attacks and login spam.
Fix:
- If you’re not using it, disable it.
- Or use a plugin like Disable XML-RPC.
12. Two-Factor Authentication
Adding two-factor authentication (2FA) creates an extra security layer for logins. While it adds one extra step for you, it creates a massive barrier for hackers.
- Enable 2FA on your login page. Use:
> Google Authenticator
> WP 2FA
> Wordfence Login Security
Final Thoughts: You Can Handle WordPress Security Issues
Security of WordPress sites is an ongoing action to stay proactive. Most breaches are opportunistic rather than targeted attacks. By implementing these security measures, you’ll be safer than the vast majority of WordPress sites. Treat your WordPress site like your home—lock all the doors, secure the windows, and never leave the keys in plain sight.
Talk to our WordPress experts today to secure your WordPress websites.
