
7 Keys to Securing Your Website Against Cyber Attacks
Cybercrime is on a dramatic rise. In fact, according to a recent study by Symantec, the cost of cybercrime has now reached over $6 trillion annually and they expect it to grow even further in the years to come. This makes securing your website against cyber attacks more important than ever before.
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to help protect your website from these threats. Here are seven keys to securing your website against cyber attacks:
1. Keep your software up to date.
One of the best ways to protect your website is by making sure you have the latest software updates installed on all systems, including both websites and servers. This will ensure that you have patched any vulnerabilities and prevent hackers from exploiting them.
For example, if you’re using WordPress, make sure it’s up to date and that you’re using the latest version of PHP. Also, be sure to keep plugins and themes updated as well.
2. Use strong passwords.
Using strong passwords is one of the most basic steps to securing your website against cyber attacks. Passwords should be at least eight characters long and contain a mix of numbers, symbols, and upper and lowercase letters. Consider enabling two-factor authentication for extra security.
Here’s what an easy password looks like: P4ssw0rd.
And here’s what a strong password looks like: P&ssW0rD7!
3. Secure your server.
Another key to securing your website against cyber-attacks is to secure the server that houses it. Make sure you only allow connections from known IP addresses and use firewalls to block unwanted traffic. Use antivirus software and web application firewalls (WAFs) to protect against malicious code and malware.
Here’s an example of the security measures you should have in place:
• Enable mod_security on a web server to block malicious code.
• Implement a WAF (web application firewall) and regularly update it.
• Use antivirus software and keep it up to date.
4. Use Secure Sockets Layer (SSL).
SSL is a protocol that provides an encrypted connection between two computers. It encrypts data so hackers can not intercept and read it, making it essential for any website that collects or transmits sensitive information such as payment details. If your website doesn’t have SSL enabled, get it set up as soon as possible.
When securing your website with SSL, make sure to:
Use a 2048-bit or higher certificate. This will ensure the highest level of encryption and protection.
Make sure a reputable source issued your SSL certificate, such as a Certificate Authority.
Ensure that you have secured your website with both HTTP and HTTPS protocols.
5. Perform regular backups.
Backups are essential for recovering from any kind of cyber-attack or data loss. Make sure you perform regular backups of all important data, including files, databases, and website content, and store them in a secure location. If you run an eCommerce site, back up your customers’ orders and credit card information as well.
Here’s how you can create a reliable backup process:
• Schedule backups to be taken at least on a weekly basis.
• Use version control and store multiple versions of your files in case you need to roll back or restore previous versions.
• Make sure only authorized personnel have access to the backups.
• Test your backups regularly to ensure they are working properly.
• Store the backups off-site or in the cloud so they are safe if a disaster should occur.
This might sound like a lot of work, but it’s worth it when your site is at risk of losing valuable data or being attacked by malicious actors. The time you spend creating a reliable backup process could be the difference between keeping your website and data secure or losing everything in an attack.
6. Scan for vulnerabilities regularly.
It’s important to stay on top of any new vulnerabilities that may arise, so scan your site regularly for potential threats. You can use tools like web vulnerability scanners to detect any weak spots and address them before they become a problem. Knowing where your site is vulnerable can help you secure it against any future attacks.
Scanning for vulnerabilities should become part of your regular security maintenance routine, especially if you’re running an eCommerce site or are dealing with sensitive data. It’s also a good idea to keep up with industry news and patch any vulnerabilities as soon as they’re discovered.
7. Educate yourself and your staff.
Finally, it’s important to stay informed about the latest security threats, trends, and best practices. Make sure you and your staff are up-to-date with the latest information related to cybersecurity so that you can better protect your website from cyber-attacks. You should also educate yourself on how to respond to any potential threats and have a plan of action in place if one should arise.
To educate your staff, you can provide them with security awareness training, hold regular meetings to discuss any potential threats, and stay informed about the latest developments in cybersecurity. This will help ensure that everyone is prepared for any cyber threats or attacks.
In addition, you can also work with a security professional to assess the security of your website and make sure you took all necessary steps to keep it safe. A good cybersecurity expert can help you identify any weak spots in your system, advise on how to protect yourself against attacks, and implement the best practices for keeping your website secure.
Conclusion
Taking the steps to secure your website against cyber attacks can seem like a daunting task, but it’s something that you should not overlook. By following these 7 key tips, you can help ensure your website is safe from attack and keep your data secure.
With the right measures in place, you can ensure your website is secure and protected from any potential cyber threats. And don’t forget to stay informed so that you can keep up with the latest trends and best practices!