How to Prevent Common Website Security Issues Print

🔐 How to Prevent Common Website Security Issues

Keeping your website secure protects your business reputation, data, and customers. TK Internet Marketing recommends a few proactive steps every client should follow to reduce the risk of hacking, malware, and downtime.

🛠️ Step 1: Keep WordPress, Plugins, and Themes Updated

Outdated software is one of the most common ways hackers gain access.

1. Log in to your WordPress dashboard (https://yourdomain.com/wp-admin).

2. Go to Dashboard → Updates.

3. Apply any available updates for:

   • WordPress core

   • Themes

   • Plugins

4. Remove any plugins or themes you no longer use.

💡 We recommend checking for updates weekly or enrolling in one of our WordPress Maintenance Plans to have updates handled automatically.

🔑 Step 2: Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Weak passwords are a major security risk.

• Use unique, complex passwords with at least 12 characters, including numbers and symbols.

• Avoid reusing passwords between accounts.

• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for your WordPress admin and email accounts whenever possible.

🧠 Tools like Bitwarden, 1Password, or Google Password Manager can generate and store secure passwords safely.

🔍 Step 3: Install a Security Plugin

If you’re managing your own site, install a reputable WordPress security plugin such as:

• Wordfence Security

• iThemes Security

• Sucuri Security

These tools can:

• Scan for malware and file changes

• Block brute-force login attempts

• Notify you of suspicious activity

⚙️ TK Internet Marketing includes malware scanning and firewall protection with our maintenance and hosting plans.

🌐 Step 4: Enable SSL and HTTPS

SSL encryption ensures your visitors’ data is transmitted securely.

1. Make sure your site uses https:// instead of http://.

2. You should see a padlock icon in the browser address bar.

3. If you don’t have SSL enabled, open a ticket under Website Support and we’ll install it for you — often free of charge.

🚨 Without SSL, your site may display “Not Secure” warnings in Chrome and affect search rankings.

💾 Step 5: Set Up Automatic Backups

Backups are essential in case your site ever needs to be restored.

• Use your hosting’s Backup Wizard (via cPanel) or a plugin such as UpdraftPlus.

• Store at least one backup copy offsite (Dropbox, Google Drive, etc.).

• If you host with us, automatic backups are already included and retained for several days.

💡 Ask us to verify your backup schedule anytime — we can confirm your restore points.

🧱 Step 6: Limit Access and Permissions

Only grant admin access to trusted users and remove old accounts immediately.

• Create Editor or Author roles for contributors who don’t need full access.

• Regularly review user roles under Users → All Users.

• Use a separate login for developers or contractors and disable it when the job is complete.

🧩 Step 7: Stay Informed and Proactive

• Check your WordPress dashboard notifications regularly.

• Subscribe to TK Internet Marketing’s email alerts for security advisories or maintenance reminders.

• Contact us if you notice anything unusual, such as:

  • Unexpected redirects

  • Spam content

  • New admin users you didn’t create

💬 Need Help?

If you suspect a security issue or want a full security audit, open a ticket at https://clients.tkinternetmarketing.com/clientarea.php under Website Support, or email support@tkinternetmarketing.com.

Our team can scan your site, remove malware, and strengthen your security settings to prevent future attacks.