WordPress powers over 40% of all websites on the internet—which makes it not just popular, but also a prime target for hackers. While WordPress itself is secure when maintained properly, many vulnerabilities come from user error, outdated software, or poorly coded plugins and themes.
Here are the biggest WordPress security issues site owners should watch out for—and how to prevent them.
1. 🚨 Outdated Plugins and Themes
The Issue:
Third-party plugins and themes are often the weakest link. If not regularly updated, they can contain known vulnerabilities that hackers exploit.
The Fix:
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Only use well-reviewed plugins from trusted sources.
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Set up regular update checks or enable auto-updates.
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Delete any unused plugins/themes.
2. 🔐 Weak Passwords & User Access
The Issue:
Brute force attacks target admin accounts with weak or default credentials (like admin / password123).
The Fix:
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Use strong, unique passwords.
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Change the default “admin” username.
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Use two-factor authentication (2FA).
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Limit login attempts.
3. 🛑 Lack of Security Plugins
The Issue:
Many site owners don’t install security plugins that help detect and block threats.
The Fix:
Install trusted security plugins like:
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Wordfence
-
Sucuri Security
-
iThemes Security
These offer features like firewalls, login protection, and malware scanning.
4. 🧰 Poor Hosting Environments
The Issue:
Cheap or unreliable hosting can lack proper server-side security, making all sites on the server vulnerable.
The Fix:
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Choose a reputable WordPress-specific host (like SiteGround, Kinsta, or WP Engine).
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Ensure your host offers things like regular backups, firewalls, and DDoS protection.
5. 📂 Unprotected wp-config.php and .htaccess
The Issue:
These core files contain critical data like database credentials and WordPress settings. If left exposed, they’re a jackpot for attackers.
The Fix:
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Move
wp-config.phpone directory above root, if possible. -
Set strict file permissions (
640for wp-config.php). -
Use
.htaccessrules to deny access to these files.
6. 🔄 No Regular Backups
The Issue:
If your site is hacked and you don’t have a clean backup, recovery becomes a nightmare.
The Fix:
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Use plugins like UpdraftPlus, BlogVault, or Jetpack.
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Schedule automatic daily or weekly backups.
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Store backups off-site (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.).
7. ⚠️ SQL Injection & XSS Attacks
The Issue:
Poorly coded plugins or forms can allow attackers to inject malicious scripts or database commands.
The Fix:
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Use security plugins that block these common exploits.
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Avoid using outdated or shady plugins.
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Keep your codebase clean and test form input thoroughly.
8. 🌍 Not Using HTTPS
The Issue:
Running a site over HTTP instead of HTTPS exposes your data (and users’ data) to interception.
The Fix:
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Install an SSL certificate (most hosts offer this free via Let’s Encrypt).
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Redirect all traffic to HTTPS.
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Update internal links and resources to HTTPS.
Final Thoughts 💭
WordPress security doesn’t have to be intimidating—but it does need attention. Regular updates, good security hygiene, and proactive tools can protect your site from 99% of common threats.
Want help locking down your site? Or need a quick security audit? Let’s chat—your site’s safety is worth it.
