WordPress remains one of the most popular CMS platforms in use today. However, its popularity also makes it a prime target for attackers. To help you safeguard your site, CTInfoSec has compiled a list of essential security measures to harden against the most frequent WordPress attacks.

1. Limit the Exposure of Admin Pages. Restrict access to /wp-admin and wp-login.php, and rename the default administrator account. Require TLS for all admin interactions. By making wp-admin less accessible and using secondary authentication like Basic Auth, you reduce the risk of password spraying attacks.
2. Enforce MFA and Strong Passwords. MFA should be considered a requirement for all externally facing logins. Combined with a strong, lengthy, and randomized password, this will reduce the likely success of many password-based and phishing attacks.
3. Enable Automated Patching. For scenarios with limited staff available for monitoring and maintenance, enabling automated updates is likely to be a lower risk option. There is a chance an update will break or disrupt the site functionality, so caution is advised when enabling this feature.
4. Deploy Additional Protection Layers. Leverage tools such as web application firewalls, IPS, and security plugins such as WordFence. A layered security approach helps protect against vulnerabilities in code and configuration.
5. Remove Unused Features and Files. Regularly audit and remove unused plugins, pages, and content. This reduces your attack surface and minimizes potential vulnerabilities.
6. Patch the Base OS. Ensure the underlying operating system and infrastructure are regularly updated and hardened. Even if WordPress is secure, vulnerabilities in the supporting infrastructure can put your site at risk.
7. Enable Logging and Alerts. Monitor key system changes and set up alerts to detect tampering or successful attacks quickly. Ensure the appropriate staff are notified when changes are detected.
8. Backup Content Securely. Regularly back up your site to a second location and store backups as immutable datasets. This ensures you can restore your site to a known good state in case of a breach.
9. Separate Database Tables and Restrict Privileges. For hosts running multiple sites, use separate database structures and limit permissions. This isolates content and minimizes the impact if one site is compromised.
10. Limit Roles and Permissions. Assign user roles and permissions based on the minimum permissions required to complete tasks. Avoid overprovisioning accounts to reduce the risk of unauthorized access. There should be limited administrative roles, and users should only be assigned the necessary permissions needed to complete their function.

These baseline measures are crucial for securing your WordPress site. For tailored solutions and strategies to address specific threats, contact us at CTInfoSec.