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5 Web Design Mistakes That Make You a Hacker’s Target (and How to Fix Them)

Hey there! Keeping your website secure is a bit like locking up your house at night; it’s essential, especially if you’re handling online payments or storing any kind of sensitive info. Given the recent push by the big guns like CISA and Microsoft to up their cybersecurity game, it’s clear that no one’s immune to cyber threats these days​ (CISA)​.

So, let’s dive into some common slip-ups in web design that might as well have a “Welcome, Hackers!” sign posted on your site, and more importantly, how you can fix them:

1. Forgetting to Use SSL Certificates

Imagine sending a secret letter without an envelope. That’s your site without an SSL certificate. It’s vital for keeping your data exchanges under wraps.

Quick Fix: Get that SSL certificate up and running. It’s the difference between HTTP and HTTPS in your web address, and it’s a must-have for any site that’s serious about security.

2. Playing It Loose with Passwords

Weak passwords are like using a flimsy lock on your front door. Easy to pick and a golden ticket for troublemakers.

Quick Fix: Time to toughen up those password policies. Mix it up with letters, numbers, and symbols, and seriously consider two-factor authentication (2FA) to double down on security.

3. Neglecting Updates

Using outdated software is like leaving your windows wide open. Hackers love to slip through the cracks in old, unpatched systems.

Quick Fix: Keep everything up to date, from your CMS to plugins and themes. Automate updates if you can, and stay in the loop with security alerts related to your website’s toolbox.

4. Admin Areas in the Open

Having your admin login page out in the open is like leaving your house keys under the mat. Not exactly the height of security!

Quick Fix: Lock down access to your admin areas. Use IP whitelisting and customize those admin URLs to something only you would know.

5. Skipping Security Checks

Not keeping an eye out for vulnerabilities on your site? That’s like ignoring that weird noise your car’s been making. It won’t fix itself!

Quick Fix: Regular security audits are a must. It might be worth getting a professional to take a look under the hood every now and then to ensure everything’s in tip-top shape.

Wrapping Up

Staying secure online is a never-ending game of cat and mouse. The good news is, with a few smart moves, you can keep your site from becoming an easy target. And hey, if you’re keen to dive deeper into keeping your digital fortress secure, our Safeguard Your Sales: How to Secure Online Payments on WordPress, Security Guide is packed with tips, tricks, and insights.

Want us to take a look at your website and give you some advice? Step up your website’s security game today. Don’t wait for a breach to happen to start thinking about security! Get in touch, we’d love to help!

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Apex Editorial
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