WordPress powers over 40% of the Internet, yet it still has a reputation for being “insecure.” You may have even heard horror stories about hacked websites and assumed the platform itself was to blame.
It is understandable, as business owners, the last thing we want is to invest in a website only to find it being compromised later down the line. But the reality is often less dramatic and, in fact, is more manageable than the headlines suggest.
The truth is that WordPress is not the problem. Poor maintenance and neglect are what leave most websites vulnerable. What this means is that there are clear and simple steps you can take to reduce the risk.
So if you are feeling a bit unsure about how to keep your website safe or whether it is even something you need to think about, we have broken down the common myths about WordPress security and what really makes a difference to keep your website safe.
Myth: WordPress is Insecure
Reality: WordPress is as secure as any other platform, as long as it is properly maintained.
As with any large platform, WordPress’s popularity means it is a big target for hackers. However, that does not mean the platform itself is inherently unsafe to use. The majority of security breaches happen because websites are running outdated software or plugins, which make it much easier for attackers to find a way in.
What to do: Keep your WordPress core, themes and plugins up to date. Regular updates close security gaps and make your website harder to attack.
Myth: Free Plugs and Themes Are Fine to Use
Reality: Unknown plugs and themes can introduce hidden risk.
It might be tempting to opt for a free or unknown source to save money, but this can expose your website to malware or create other vulnerabilities. However, legitimate plugins can also be risky, so always check how long it has been since the developer provided an update. Plugins that are not maintained regularly carry similar risks to those from untrusted sources.
What to do: Stick to well-reviewed plugins and themes from reputable sources. Take the time to review your current plugins and remove anything you are not actively using to close down any potential vulnerabilities.
Myth: Strong Passwords Do Not Really Matter
Reality: Weak passwords are one of the easiest ways hackers can get in.
If your username is “admin” and your password is something guessable, you are going to make life very, very easy for attackers. Brute-force attacks (where hackers try endless password combinations) are still one of the most common threats to WordPress websites.
What to do: Use strong, unique passwords for your admin account and encourage other user accounts on the site to do the same. Make full use of two-factor authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of protection.
Myth: Backups Are Only for Big Businesses
Reality: Every business needs backups, no matter the size.
If your website was compromised tomorrow, for whatever reason, would you be able to get it back online quickly? Without backups, you might lose everything from content to customer data. This is not just about being hacked – it’s about pages being accidentally deleted or customer information being removed or over-ridden. Backups are there to help you get back on your feet quickly and efficiently.
What to do: Set up automatic backups and store them in a secure, off-site location. That way, you can restore your site quickly if anything goes wrong.
Myth: Once Your Website is Live, You Can Forget About It
Reality: A website is not a “set it and forget it” investment.
Security is not a one-time job. Just like taking your car in for a service to keep it running, your website needs ongoing maintenance. Ignoring updates, skipping backups and letting your hosting lapse all increase your risk over time.
What to do: Schedule regular maintenance or work with a professional who can monitor your site, apply updates and spot problems before they become serious.
Keeping WordPress Secure Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
A well-maintained WordPress site is no more vulnerable than any other website platform. What makes a difference is how much care is given behind the scenes.
If we continue with our earlier car analogy, you wouldn’t expect your car to run smoothly forever if you never changed the oil or checked the tyres. Your website is exactly the same. Without the right maintenance, even the best-built site can start to develop issues, and that is what can leave the door open for attackers.
Keeping on top of it all can feel like a job in itself, but it does not have to be yours. We keep WordPress websites running smoothly, securely and safely so you can focus on what you do best – running your business. From regular updates and backups to monitoring for potential threats, we make sure nothing slips through the cracks.
If you’d rather not worry about whether your website is protected, we’re here to help. Get in touch today to find out how we can look after your WordPress site and give you one less thing to think about.