As an author, you rely on your website to connect with readers, promote your books, and strengthen your brand. Cyber attacks happen more often than ever, so you need to protect your site from hackers. Here are practical steps you can take to make your WordPress author site hack-proof.
Use strong passwords
Hackers break into sites easily when authors use weak passwords. Create strong passwords that hackers can’t guess. Use at least 12 characters, mix uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid common words or phrases, and never recycle the same password across accounts.
Keep WordPress and plugins up to date
Outdated WordPress versions and plugins leave holes hackers love to exploit. Update your site and plugins regularly to patch vulnerabilities and stay protected against new threats.
Use security plugins
Security plugins add extra layers of defense. Tools like Wordfence, Sucuri, and iThemes Security block malicious traffic, track suspicious activity, and alert you to problems. Install one and let it guard your site.
Use SSL encryption
SSL encryption scrambles data between your site and visitors’ browsers, protecting sensitive details like login credentials or payment information. Add SSL by purchasing a certificate through your web host and keep your site traffic secure.
Limit login attempts
Hackers often launch brute force attacks by trying password after password. Limit the number of login attempts to block these attacks. You can set this up through security plugins or by tweaking your .htaccess file.
Use two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds another barrier for hackers. Even if they steal your password, they still need a code sent to your phone or email. Enabling 2FA makes it far harder for unauthorized users to break in.
Back up your site regularly
Backups give you a safety net. If hackers compromise your site, you can restore it quickly without losing everything. Plugins like UpdraftPlus and BackupBuddy make scheduled backups simple.
Final thoughts
You can’t afford to ignore website security. Strong passwords, regular updates, security plugins, SSL encryption, limited login attempts, two-factor authentication, and frequent backups all work together to shield your WordPress author site. Take these steps now, and you’ll protect your readers, your brand, and your hard work—leaving you free to focus on writing and connecting with your audience.