I’ve been working with WordPress websites for many years and I’ve seen the same security issues pop up over and over again—most of them avoidable. WordPress is a powerful platform, but its popularity also makes it a prime target for hackers. The good news? A few smart habits can significantly reduce your risk. Are you making any of these WordPress security mistakes?
Here are the top WordPress security mistakes I come across (and how you can fix them today):
1. Not Updating WordPress Core, Plugins, or Themes
The Mistake: Clients often delay or ignore updates, worried about “breaking” their site. Ironically, this fear creates the very vulnerability that hackers exploit.
The Fix:
- Update WordPress, themes and plugins regularly.
- Always backup your site first.
- Use a staging site to test updates if you’re unsure.
- Set a monthly reminder or hire someone (like WPRx!) to handle it for you.
2. Using Default Usernames or Weak Passwords
The Mistake: Using “admin” as a username or passwords like “123456” is basically inviting hackers in.
The Fix:
- Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts (especially admin accounts).
- Use a password generator such as LastPass Password Generator.
- Consider using a password manager like LastPass or 1Password.
3. Leaving Unused Plugins and Themes Installed
The Mistake: Even if deactivated, old plugins and themes can still create vulnerabilities.
The Fix:
- Download a copy and delete themes or plugins you’re not using.
- Download via FTP if you’re able or use a plugin such as: Download Plugin.
- Stick to well-maintained plugins with good reviews and recent updates.
4. Not Changing the Default Login URL
The Mistake: Everyone knows that yourdomain.com/wp-login.php is the default login. If your login page is not protected, hackers can run automated scripts targeting it.
The Fix:
- Protect your site’s login with Cloudflare’s managed challenge firewall rule.
- Use a security plugin like WPS Hide Login to customize your login URL.
- Avoid obvious alternatives like /login/ or /admin/.
5. No Malware or File Change Monitoring
The Mistake: You don’t know something’s wrong until it’s really wrong—site down, flagged by Google, or customer complaints.
The Fix:
- Install a plugin like Sucuri for real-time file monitoring.
- Set up email alerts for suspicious activity.
- Regularly run a third-party security scan.
6. Not Backing Up Regularly
The Mistake: One small hack, and everything’s gone—or at least severely disrupted.
The Fix:
- Make sure your hosting provider is backing up your site daily.
- Store additional backups offsite (not just on your server).
- Schedule offsite backups weekly or daily, depending on how often your content changes.
7. Too Many Admin Users
The Mistake: Giving everyone admin access is like handing out the keys to your house—with no way to know who’s doing what.
The Fix:
- Assign user roles carefully (Editor, Contributor, etc…).
- Limit admin access to only those who absolutely need it.
- Regularly audit and remove inactive users.
- Use a temporary login solution for short-term admin usage: Temporary Login Without Password
- Log all user activity.
Final Thoughts
WordPress security isn’t about being paranoid—it’s about being prepared. Each of these mistakes can be fixed with a little care and forethought. The best part? When your site is secure, you can focus on growing your business—not recovering from a disaster.
If you’re unsure where your WordPress site stands security-wise, WPRx offers site audits and ongoing maintenance plans to keep everything running clean, fast, and secure. Contact us today and let’s make your website secure!