11 Best Practices to Keep Your Website Secure

Websites are constantly in danger of being hacked.

The scary reality is that over 50,000 websites get hacked each day, and the numbers are increasing. So, it also becomes increasingly important to enhance your website security.

SMEs are the ones that are at maximum risk. Still, most of them worry about website security the least. They think hackers won't target their website since they have larger fish to fry.

A website is integral to how your product or service performs and enables you to enjoy the thrill of a traffic spike. So, you need to maintain it for optimal performance.

Here are 11 best practices to enhance your website security:

11 Security Tips to Bulletproof Your Website Against Cyberattack

Use HTTPS protocol

If you’re a business or individual whose website isn't currently using SSL or HTTPS protocol, you need to do it right away.

It tells your website visitors they’re engaging with a legit website and that hackers can’t intercept their personal data on the site.

Without SSL, hackers can easily collect personal information from your business or your site users. Additionally, it improves your search ranking because Google especially rewards SSL-equipped websites.

READ: How SSL Helps Boost Your Search Engine Rankings

Update software

Since no software is perfect, hackers prey on its vulnerabilities. Make sure to keep all your website plugins and software up to date.

Most cyberattacks are automated. Hackers scan websites for vulnerabilities using bots. When businesses do not update the software on their websites, it becomes easy for hackers to use this vulnerability and cause irreparable damage.

Choose a secure web hosting service

Not all hosting providers prioritise security on their servers. When choosing a hosting plan, make sure it provides maximum features to give your websites an extra layer of protection.

You may opt for a shared hosting plan. But since you share a server with other websites, it wouldn’t be ideal if you’re aiming for consistent website performance.

If one of the shared websites gets hacked, your website’s information becomes vulnerable as well.

Change your password regularly

Did you know? Over 25% of passwords can be hacked within three seconds.

That's why you need to update your password regularly. There are many password-generating apps on the internet. They help you create long passwords that are impossible to crack.

Also, make sure you use a web host that uses two-factor authentication. It will add a layer of security for password protection. If your web host doesn't offer it, you can enable it on your own or using third-party apps.

READ: Cybersecurity is No Joke: 7 Tips to Protect Your Business

Secure your personal computer

At times, your personal computer is your biggest threat when it comes to security. Malware induces malicious files into websites by taking FTP logins.

It becomes an easy gateway for hackers when you’re not serious about your personal computer’s security. Make sure you have antivirus software on your personal computer. One small mistake with an unsecured personal computer would end up hurting your website.

Limit user access

Usually, human errors are the cause of most cyberattacks. The best way to deal with this scenario is to limit the number of users who have access to your network.

Implement the principle of minimal privilege. Allow access to employees only for the time it takes them to finish the task.

Each user should have login credentials specific to their name. Multiple users sharing a username and password won’t encourage any accountability. Employees are likely to be cautious with sensitive information if an error can be tracked.

Get website backup

It is always best to prepare for the worst when you're dealing with a website.

Always be on your toes for any unfortunate incident. Your task will get a lot easier if you backup your website.

Use backup and security plugins so you don't lose anything in case of a mishap. Or you can get a web hosting plan that offers regular backups as well.

Restrict uploads

Allowing website visitors to upload files is very risky. These files may contain scripts that exploit vulnerabilities on your website.

Allow uploads only if it is necessary. Ensure that files uploaded on the website get stored in a folder or database in another location. Create a script that will retrieve those files from a remote location to deliver them to a browser.

Adjust content management system (CMS) settings

Most cyberattacks these days are automated. Hackers identify sites with default settings using programmed bots. It helps them target a broader range of websites using the same type of malware or virus.

Make sure you adjust your default CMS settings like user controls, file permissions, visibility, and comments.

Avoid connecting to public networks

Just like you, everyone can connect to a public network – which means you’re sharing your data with them including emails, banking information, etc.

Stay away from public networks. If necessary, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when connecting to one. You can also use your mobile data instead since it's usually encrypted.

Train your employees

No matter how guarded your website is, one mistake from an employee can break your entire website security measures.

The key to stronger cybersecurity is ensuring your employees are informed and trained on common security measures. They should be the first ones to follow the best practices in protecting your website.

READ: 7 Tips to Establish a Strong Information Policy in Your Org

Make website security your priority

Dealing with website security issues can be expensive and can cause business loss. Choose an all-in-one website security package that caters to a consistent web experience and offers round-the-clock website protection.