Security is one of the main concerns for many if not all online users. It is also a big concern for web developers or anybody who owns a website. There are many hackers, viruses, malicious software and other threats that can disrupt or even shut down your site, damage your company’s reputation and can give you a big headache. The good thing is, that there are protective measures one can take to minimize the risk. So here are few basic tips on how to protect your website:
1. Be Aware
Awareness is a key in protecting your website. You need to know what threats are out there in virtual world so you know what you are up against. Stay updated about any new or recent threats. There are helpful blogs that you can subscribe to, that will send you e-mail alerts. On of them is The Hacker News.
2. Keep your software up-to-date
That is a very important step that helps to keep your site less vulnerable to hackers. There is a reason why companies invest so much money in updating their software. There should be no reason for your delay in installing all the updates as quickly as possible.
3. Scan your site often
There are different plugins and software that can scan your website for any possible attacks, viruses and malicious links. Many of them help you to fix the problem as well. It may be a good idea to scan your site often to catch any possible danger right a way. Most of those plugins or software have a small monthly fee, but it’s well worth it. There are few that are free, like WordFence Security.
4. Periodically review access controls
It is always good to know who has access to your website. But if you own a large company, you may have different people with different access levels. Reviewing those will ensure that only authorized people can make changes to your site, and not … say… former employees that may want to harm your site.
5. Back up your site frequently
Backing up your site will help you to quickly recover if any harm is done to your website.
When you take preventive measures seriously, you are less likely to become a victim of cyber crime.
