WordPress powers over 40% of the web — which makes it the biggest target for hackers. The good news: most attacks are automated and preventable with basic security practices. Here’s what you need to do.
Why WordPress Sites Get Hacked
The vast majority of WordPress hacks aren’t sophisticated. They exploit three things: outdated software, weak passwords, and insecure plugins. Fix these three and you eliminate 95% of the risk.
Essential Security Measures
1. Keep Everything Updated
WordPress core, themes, and plugins should be updated as soon as new versions are released. Outdated plugins are the number one attack vector. If a plugin hasn’t been updated in over a year, replace it.
2. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Your WordPress admin password should be at least 16 characters with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Use a password manager. Never reuse passwords across sites.
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Install a 2FA plugin so logging in requires both your password and a code from your phone. This single step stops most brute-force attacks.
4. Limit Login Attempts
By default, WordPress allows unlimited login attempts. Install a plugin that locks out IP addresses after 3-5 failed attempts.
5. Regular Backups
Automated daily backups stored off-site (not on the same server). If the worst happens, you can restore your entire site in minutes.
6. Web Application Firewall
Cloudflare (free tier) or Sucuri provides a firewall that blocks malicious traffic before it reaches your server.
7. Remove Unused Plugins and Themes
Every inactive plugin is a potential vulnerability. If you’re not using it, delete it — not just deactivate.
8. Security Headers
Implement X-Content-Type-Options, X-Frame-Options, Content-Security-Policy, and other HTTP security headers to prevent common attack types like clickjacking and XSS.
What We Include
Every Hire The Creatives website ships with security headers, minimal plugin footprint, two-factor authentication ready, and automated backup configuration. Our Professional and Enterprise packages include ongoing security monitoring and updates.
Worried about your current site’s security? Request a security audit.