Avoid These 7 Common WordPress Security Mistakes

WordPress powers more than 40% of the web, which makes it a prime target for attackers. Most hacked sites are not victims of clever exploits. They fall to a handful of avoidable mistakes.

1. Running outdated software

Old core, plugin and theme versions are the most common entry point. Update regularly, and test updates on staging first for important sites.

2. Weak passwords and no two-factor login

Reused or guessable passwords get cracked or leaked. Use a password manager and enable two-factor authentication for every administrator.

3. Keeping the default admin username

Attackers try "admin" first. Use a unique username and keep your public author name different from your login.

4. Installing nulled or abandoned plugins

Pirated plugins often ship with backdoors, and abandoned ones stop receiving security fixes. Install from trusted sources and remove what you no longer use.

5. Having no tested backups

A backup you have never restored is a hope, not a plan. Keep automatic off-site backups and test a restore.

6. Leaving login and XML-RPC wide open

Limit login attempts, add a firewall and disable XML-RPC if you do not need it.

7. Ignoring basic server hygiene

Use HTTPS everywhere, set correct file permissions, disable file editing in the dashboard and keep PHP up to date.

Fixing these seven things removes most of the risk. If you want a second pair of eyes on your site, a security and performance review is a good place to start.