<\/span>3. Add a JavaScript challenge to your login page<\/span><\/h3>\nAdding a JavaScript (JS) challenge to your login page will help ensure that only authorized users, not bots, are able to access your site.\u00a0<\/p>\n
When enabled on the page, it serves as a security check to validate that the request is coming from a browser capable of executing JavaScript.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The challenge requires no interaction from the user but adds a short delay (less than five seconds) until the browser finishes processing the JavaScript.<\/p>\n
<\/span>4. Limit login attempts<\/span><\/h3>\nIt is crucial to limit the number of allowable login attempts to deter hackers from using brute force methods and gaining access to accounts. Doing so makes it more difficult for hackers to guess your password and prevent them from accessing your account even if they have your username.\u00a0<\/p>\n
In addition, limiting login attempts helps to protect your account from being locked out if someone else tries to guess your password.\u00a0<\/p>\n
<\/span>5. Secure all passwords and enable two-factor authentication<\/span><\/h3>\nAnother way to make your WordPress site more secure is to improve the difficulty of your passwords and enable two-factor authentication.<\/p>\n
Passwords are often the first line of defense against hackers, so it\u2019s important to choose ones that are hard to guess. A good password should be at least eight characters long and include a mix of letters (uppercase and lowercase), numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessed words like \u201cpassword\u201d or your birthdate.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of identification, such as a code sent to your mobile phone, email address or authenticator app before you can log in. This makes it much harder for hackers to gain access to your site even if they know your password.<\/p>\n
<\/span>6. Remove XML-RPC.php<\/span><\/h3>\nA simple measure to secure your WordPress site is to remove the XML-RPC.php file. This file allows anyone to remotely access your WordPress site, which can give hackers the ability to inject malicious code or take over your site entirely.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Additionally, attackers can conduct brute-force login attempts through this file, so even if you secure your login page, attackers can gain access through it.<\/p>\n
Fortunately, removing the XML-RPC file is a relatively straightforward process. Simply connect to your site via FTP and delete the file from your server. Once you have done this, be sure to update your .htaccess file to prevent any further access to the file.<\/p>\n
<\/span>7. Remove WP and plugin versions<\/span><\/h3>\nHackers are always finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities and break into websites. That includes looking at the WordPress and plugin versions you are using. <\/p>\n
If you are running an outdated version, it may have known security issues that can easily be exploited. That’s why you must keep your WordPress installation and all plugins up to date.\u00a0<\/p>\n
That said, zero-day exploits exist and knowing which version of a plugin or WordPress core you\u2019re using can clue in hackers how to gain access to your website.<\/p>\n