43% of all websites run on WordPress (W3Techs), making it the most targeted platform by hackers. According to Sucuri’s Hacked Website Report, 93.4% of infected websites were running WordPress.
The good news? Most hacks are preventable with basic security measures. Here is how to protect your WordPress website in 2026.
Top 10 WordPress Security Threats
- Brute force attacks: Automated login attempts to guess passwords
- Malware injection: Malicious code inserted through vulnerable plugins
- SQL injection: Attacks on database through vulnerable forms
- Cross-site scripting (XSS): Malicious scripts injected into pages
- File inclusion attacks: Unauthorized access to sensitive files
- Outdated software: Running old versions of WordPress, themes, or plugins
- Weak passwords: Easy-to-guess admin passwords
- No SSL certificate: Unencrypted data transmission
- Missing security headers: Lack of protective HTTP headers
- No regular backups: No way to recover from attacks
10 Essential WordPress Security Measures
1. Keep Everything Updated
WordPress core, themes, and plugins must be updated regularly. 60% of hacked WordPress sites were running outdated software. Enable automatic updates for minor releases.
2. Use Strong Passwords
Use passwords with 12+ characters, including uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for all admin accounts.
3. Install a Security Plugin
Security plugins like Wordfence, Sucuri, or iThemes Security provide:
- Firewall protection
- Malware scanning
- Login attempt limiting
- Security hardening
4. Limit Login Attempts
By default, WordPress allows unlimited login attempts. Limit to 5 attempts per 15 minutes. Lock out IPs after 3 failed attempts.
5. Change Default Login URL
WordPress default login is at /wp-login.php. Change it to a custom URL. This stops 90% of automated brute force attacks.
6. Install SSL Certificate
SSL encrypts data between your server and visitors. Google gives ranking preference to HTTPS sites. Free SSL certificates are available from Let’s Encrypt.
7. Disable XML-RPC
XML-RPC is a WordPress feature that hackers exploit for brute force attacks. Disable it unless you use remote publishing tools.
8. Set Correct File Permissions
File permissions should be:
- Directories: 755
- Files: 644
- wp-config.php: 400 or 440
9. Disable File Editing
WordPress allows editing theme and plugin files from the dashboard. Disable this to prevent hackers from injecting code if they gain admin access.
10. Regular Backups
Backup your website daily. Store backups offsite (Google Drive, Dropbox). Test your backups regularly to ensure they work.
WordPress Security Checklist
| Security Measure | Priority | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Keep software updated | Critical | Easy |
| Strong passwords + 2FA | Critical | Easy |
| Install security plugin | Critical | Easy |
| Limit login attempts | High | Easy |
| Change login URL | High | Medium |
| Install SSL | Critical | Easy |
| Disable XML-RPC | Medium | Easy |
| Set file permissions | High | Medium |
| Disable file editing | Medium | Easy |
| Regular backups | Critical | Easy |
FAQ
Q: How often should I update WordPress?
A: Enable automatic updates for minor releases. Check for major updates weekly. Update plugins and themes as soon as updates are available.
Q: Is free SSL certificate safe?
A: Yes. Let’s Encrypt provides free SSL certificates trusted by all major browsers. It is the same level of security as paid certificates.
Q: Can I recover from a hacked WordPress site?
A: Yes. Restore from backup, change all passwords, scan for malware, and update all software. Consider hiring a security professional for complex hacks.
Q: How much does WordPress security cost?
A: Security plugins range from free to ₹5,000 per year. SSL certificates are free from Let’s Encrypt. The investment is minimal compared to the cost of a hack.
Q: Do I need a security plugin if I have good hosting?
A: Yes. Hosting security and WordPress security are different. You need both for complete protection.
WordPress security is not optional – it is essential. Implement these measures today to protect your website from hackers.
Explore Lexx.in WordPress Development with Security – or call +91 9045436254 for a free security audit.
Sana Qureshi is a WordPress and Digital Product Developer at Lexx.in with 8+ years of experience. She has built 500+ secure WordPress websites for businesses worldwide. Connect with Sana at lexx.in/author/sana-qureshi
