Cyber threats are on the rise, with 2024 seeing an unprecedented surge in online attacks. From data breaches to ransomware, the threats are more sophisticated than ever.
Without proactive website security measures, your business could face devastating consequences. Imagine dealing with the fallout of sensitive customer data being stolen, leading to identity theft for your clients. Or picture your site being taken offline for days due to a cyberattack, resulting in lost sales and frustrated customers. The stress of managing customer complaints and potential lawsuits can be overwhelming, not to mention the damage to your reputation.
The financial implications can be staggering, and this is expected to grow by 15% per year for the next two years. The average cost of a data breach can reach into the millions, factoring in fines, legal fees, and the long-term loss of business. According to IMB, the average cost of a ransomware attack in 2024 is $4.54M. Making proactive website security is not just a luxury, but a necessity.Â
Let’s delve into our top 8 website security measures and why it is so crucial to protect your site.
1. Keep software and plugins up to date
Keeping your software and plugins updated is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your website. Outdated software often contains vulnerabilities that cybercriminals exploit. It’s recommended to schedule regular updates to cover these vulnerabilities and enhance the overall security of your site.
Set your website’s software to update automatically if possible. For plugins, regularly check for updates and apply them promptly to ensure your site remains secure. Check out our tips for plugin performance here.
2. Add HTTPS and an SSL certificate to your site
HTTPS is a way to keep the information sent between your website and visitors safe by scrambling it so that only the right people can read it. An SSL certificate is like a digital badge that shows your website is trustworthy and helps make this secure connection. Together, they protect user data and help build trust with your visitors.
With over 30,000 websites being hacked every day these are two tools that can deter hackers from your own site.
3. Password security
Encourage team members to change their passwords frequently to minimise the risk of compromised accounts. You can also implement 2FA (Two Factor Authentication) to add an extra layer of security. We recommend using an authenticator app like NordPass for generating secure codes.
To minimise risks, only grant high-level password access to team members who absolutely need it. Additionally, maintain a log of user permissions and regularly review access levels to ensure security is not compromised.
4. Install a strong firewall application
A strong firewall application is a security tool that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. It acts as a barrier between your network and potential threats, blocking harmful data while allowing safe traffic through.
We recommend Wordfence as a robust firewall application that helps block malicious traffic before it reaches your site.
5. Back up your website on a secure server
Regular backups are essential for recovery in case of a security incident or data loss. Without backups, you risk losing valuable data and incurring significant downtime. Use a secure server for backups and automate the process to ensure it occurs regularly and reliably.
Ensure that your hosting provider offers robust security features, such as malware scanning, firewalls, and regular updates, to protect your site effectively.
6. Educate and train your team
It’s essential to teach your team the importance of using passwords that are not easily guessable. Encourage them to use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Remind them that each account should have a unique password to prevent a single breach from compromising multiple accounts.
Educate your team on recognising phishing attempts and malicious emails, which are common tactics used by cybercriminals. Encourage them to verify the sender’s email address and to avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
While public Wi-Fi is convenient, it poses significant risks when accessing sensitive information, as these networks are often unsecured. Inform your team about the dangers, such as potential eavesdropping and man-in-the-middle attacks. Encourage them to use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to encrypt their internet connection, making it much harder for cybercriminals to intercept their data.
7. Conduct regular security audits and monitoring
Conducting security audits on a regular basis is crucial for proactively discovering potential weaknesses in your website or network. These audits evaluate your systems for outdated software, misconfigurations, and other security gaps that could be targeted by cybercriminals. By identifying these vulnerabilities early, you can implement the necessary fixes and reduce the likelihood of a successful attack.
There are numerous tools and services available that can automate the security audit process, making it more efficient and effective. These tools can scan for vulnerabilities, check for compliance with security standards, and assess overall security posture. A thorough audit typically includes reviewing your website’s software and plugins, checking user permissions, analysing firewall settings, and assessing backup procedures.
Common attack methods from hackers can include targeting outdated versions of WordPress, themes, and plugins, guessing weak passwords, scanning for open ports, and employing social engineering tactics to gain access.
8. Hire an expert
Still wondering how to increase website security? Managing website security can be complex, and ensuring your site runs smoothly requires ongoing attention. Hiring professionals like us ensures your website is regularly monitored, updated, and secure.
From SSL certificates to firewalls and VPNs, it can all seem complex and overwhelming if you aren’t from an IT background. But don’t worry, we reckon we can help you.
Regular checks and audits, plugin and theme management, security monitoring or general fixes and improvements, at ireckon Digital, we are dedicated to ensuring your website operates at its best. Bring your website up to scratch and let us take care of the maintenance and security, so you can focus on growing your business.
Key Takeaways
Protecting your website helps maintain trust, avoid financial loss, and preserve your brand’s reputation. By implementing the steps outlined above, you can significantly enhance your website’s security. Remember, taking proactive steps now will safeguard your business from the rising tide of cyber threats in 2024.
Ready to implement some website security best practices for your site? For your website security needs, contact us today to discuss how we can help you maintain and protect your online presence effectively!
