Weak Passwords
Brute Force Attacks: Hackers attempt to gain access by systematically trying different password combinations until they find the correct one.
Default or Common Passwords: Many users fail to change the default “admin” username or use easily guessable passwords, making it easier for attackers to gain unauthorized access.
Always keep a strong password and periodically update it.
Outdated Software
Obsolete WordPress Versions: Running outdated versions of WordPress, themes, or plugins can expose vulnerabilities that have been patched in newer releases.
Unpatched Security Flaws: Failing to apply security patches promptly can leave the website susceptible to exploitation.
Update WordPress installation, themes and plugins regularly.
Insecure Themes and Plugins
Third-Party Code Vulnerabilities: Themes and plugins from untrusted sources may contain insecure code, potentially providing entry points for hackers.
Abandoned or Unsupported Plugins: Plugins that are no longer maintained or updated may have unaddressed security issues.
Do thorough research before installing any theme and plugin. Delete themes and plugins that you no longer use.
Inadequate Hosting Security
Shared Hosting Vulnerabilities: Websites sharing a server with others might be at risk if one site on the server is compromised.
Lack of Firewall Protection: Without proper firewall configurations, websites may be more susceptible to attacks.
Purchase reliable hosting services that have a proven track record.
Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) and SQL Injection
XSS Attacks: Hackers inject malicious scripts into web pages that are viewed by other users, potentially leading to the theft of sensitive information.
SQL Injection: Attackers manipulate input fields to execute unauthorized SQL queries, gaining access to databases and potentially compromising data.
Take enough security measure on DNS, Server and Database level to prevent such attacks.
File Upload Vulnerabilities
Unrestricted File Uploads: Websites allowing users to upload files without proper validation may be vulnerable to malicious file uploads.
Restrict the types of files that can be uploaded by the website users on the server. Do not allow executable file uploads. And restrict the permissions of such files to “Read-Only”.
Phishing Attacks
Social Engineering: Hackers may use deceptive emails or messages to trick users into revealing login credentials or other sensitive information.
Always verify the source of emails and messages and if in doubt, do not click on any links and do no enter any sensitive information.
Malware and Backdoors
Infected Themes or Plugins: Malicious code injected into themes or plugins can serve as a backdoor for unauthorized access.
Compromised Files: Attackers may modify core files to install malware, monitor user activity, or perform other malicious actions.
Periodically scan the WordPress code and database to detect any infected files and code on the server and take necessary actions to prevent it.
Insufficient User Permissions
Unrestricted Access: Assigning excessive permissions to users, including administrators, may increase the risk of unauthorized access and changes.
Understand what are the different access levels in WordPress and assign relevant access levels to each user. Review access the levels quarterly to prevent unauthorized access to the website.
Lack of HTTPS Encryption
Insecure Data Transmission: Without HTTPS, sensitive data is transmitted in plain text, making it easier for attackers to intercept and exploit.
Purchase SSL certificates from trusted sources and always keep them updated.
Pharming and DNS Spoofing
Manipulated Domain Information: Attackers may redirect website traffic to malicious servers by compromising domain settings or exploiting DNS vulnerabilities.
Add services like CloudFlare that can help prevent DNS-level attacks on the website.
Conclusion
To enhance WordPress website security, it’s crucial to regularly update software, use strong and unique passwords, employ reputable themes and plugins, conduct security audits, and implement additional security measures such as firewalls and monitoring systems. Regular backups also play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of a potential security breach.