Securing Your Self-Hosted WordPress Blog Against Cyber Threats

To secure your self-hosted WordPress blog against cyber threats, implement a multi-layered approach including:

• Choose a secure hosting provider with strong security measures, 24/7 monitoring, and regular backups to reduce server-level risks.
• Keep WordPress core, themes, and plugins updated regularly to patch vulnerabilities.
• Use strong, unique login credentials and avoid default usernames like "admin".
• Enable HTTPS by installing an SSL certificate to encrypt data between your site and visitors, protecting against man-in-the-middle attacks.
• Limit login attempts to prevent brute-force attacks, using plugins or firewalls to block repeated failed logins.
• Disable PHP execution in directories where it’s unnecessary (e.g., /wp-content/uploads/) to block malicious scripts.
• Set correct file permissions (typically 644 for files, 755 for directories) and lock down sensitive files like wp-config.php by restricting access and moving it outside the web root if possible.
• Disable the built-in WordPress file editor to prevent attackers from injecting malicious code if they gain admin access.
• Implement security headers to protect against cross-site scripting and clickjacking by configuring your server or using plugins.
• Use security plugins and firewalls such as Sucuri or Wordfence to monitor, scan, and block threats automatically.
• Regularly back up your site and store backups securely offsite to recover quickly from attacks or data loss.

Additional best practices include enforcing two-factor authentication (2FA), removing unused plugins/themes, and monitoring user roles and permissions carefully.

This layered security strategy significantly reduces the risk of cyberattacks and helps maintain a safe, trustworthy WordPress blog environment.