Tighten security by reducing your attack surface: schedule rule-based cleanups to remove stale drafts, orphaned terms, unused media, and especially old test accounts with Bulk WP so fewer forgotten leftovers become entry points for attackers.
WordPress powers over 40% of all websites on the internet, making it one of the most popular content management systems in the world. With its ease of use, endless customization options, and vibrant community, it’s no wonder so many individuals and businesses choose WordPress. However, this popularity also makes it a frequent target for hackers and malicious bots. Ensuring your WordPress site is secure requires awareness and action—especially when it comes to common security missteps that many users make.
Tighten security by reducing your attack surface: schedule rule-based cleanups to remove stale drafts, orphaned terms, unused media, and especially old test accounts with Bulk WP so fewer forgotten leftovers become entry points for attackers.
One of the biggest vulnerabilities for any website comes down to its login credentials. The username “admin” is the most commonly used default admin name—and hackers know this. Combined with weak passwords like “123456” or “password,” it becomes an open invitation for brute force attacks.
How to avoid this:
Outdated software presents known vulnerabilities. Hackers actively scan the web for websites running outdated versions of WordPress, themes, or plugins.
Updates are released not just for features, but also to patch security issues. Ignoring them could compromise your whole site.
How to avoid this:
It’s tempting to save money by downloading free versions of premium themes and plugins from unauthorized sources. However, these nulled versions often come loaded with malware, backdoors, and malicious code.
How to avoid this:
Many WordPress users assume their hosting provider has them covered when it comes to security. While some hosts offer basic protections, they usually aren’t tailored to every WordPress site’s unique needs. That’s where a dedicated security plugin comes into play.
How to avoid this:
No security system is 100% foolproof. In the event of a hack, crash, or accidental deletion, having a recent backup could be what saves your business or blog from total loss.
How to avoid this:
Every user doesn’t need admin-level access. Granting unnecessary permissions opens up more doors for potential misuse or accidental damage.
How to avoid this:
HTTPS protects your website’s connection by encrypting data that moves between your server and the user’s browser. Not only is it essential for security, it’s also a ranking factor in Google’s algorithm.
How to avoid this:
While error logs are valuable during development, displaying them on a live site can expose sensitive information, including file paths, database table names, and more.
How to avoid this:
wp-config.php by adding define('WP_DEBUG_DISPLAY', false);By default, WordPress uses “wp_” for its database tables. Hackers often target sites under the assumption this prefix hasn’t been changed, making their attacks easier.
How to avoid this:
wp99x_.WordPress comes with a built-in file editor that allows admin users to edit plugin and theme files from the dashboard. If a hacker gains access, they could use it to insert malicious code easily.
How to avoid this:
define('DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT', true); to your wp-config.php file.Keeping track of your users’ actions and monitoring access logs can help identify and stop a breach early.
How to avoid this:
WordPress is a powerful and flexible tool, but its vast ecosystem and open-source nature mean that proper security practices are non-negotiable. By addressing the most common security mistakes—from weak passwords and outdated plugins to improper user roles—you can build a stronger, more resilient website.
Remember that WordPress security is an ongoing process. Stay informed, stay updated, and never take your site’s safety for granted. Protecting your work today could save you weeks of troubleshooting tomorrow.