WordPress powers over 40% of the web, but that popularity makes it a prime target for hackers. In 2025, attacks are more sophisticated than ever—AI-driven brute force, zero-day exploits, and supply-chain attacks are rising.

As a cybersecurity specialist with hands-on experience cleaning hacked sites, I've seen the same mistakes repeated across hundreds of sites. Here are the top 10 security mistakes most WordPress users still make—and how to fix them immediately.

1. Using Weak or Default Passwords

"admin" with password "123456" is still common. Brute force tools crack these in minutes.

Fix: Use 16+ character passwords with symbols. Enable 2FA (Google Authenticator or Authy).

2. Running Outdated WordPress Core, Themes, or Plugins

Outdated software accounts for 56% of hacks (WPScan stats).

Fix: Enable auto-updates for core and minor releases. Manually review major updates.

3. Using Nulled/Pirated Plugins or Themes

They often contain backdoors. I've removed malware from nulled plugins countless times.

Fix: Only install from official WordPress.org or trusted marketplaces.

4. Leaving Default Login URL (/wp-admin)

Bots target this URL millions of times daily.

Fix: Change the login URL with WPS Hide Login or iThemes Security.

5. No Regular Backups (or Backups Stored on the Same Server)

When ransomware hits, no offsite backup = total loss.

Fix: Use UpdraftPlus or Jetpack Backup with offsite storage (Google Drive/Dropbox).

6. Ignoring File Permissions

777 permissions let anyone write files.

Fix: Folders 755, files 644, wp-config.php 600.

7. No Web Application Firewall (WAF)

Without a firewall, attacks reach your server directly.

Fix: Cloudflare free or Wordfence/Sucuri.

8. Allowing File Editing in Dashboard

Hackers love Appearance > Theme Editor.

Fix: Add to wp-config.php: define('DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT', true);

9. Not Monitoring for Changes

You won't know you're hacked until Google flags it.

Fix: Use Wordfence file change alerts or MainWP for multi-site monitoring.

10. Thinking “My Site Is Too Small to Be Targeted”

Wrong. Automated bots scan millions of sites daily—size doesn't matter.

Final Thoughts

Avoiding these 10 mistakes will block 90%+ of common attacks. But for complete protection, regular security audits are essential.

If you want a professional audit or help fixing any of these issues, I'm here to help.

Check my services: https://www.fiverr.com/mahbubulhaqu817

What's your biggest WordPress security concern right now? Comment below!

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