It could still be at risk even if you think your website isn’t a target. Most website security breaches aren’t about stealing data or altering your site’s design. Instead, hackers often aim to use your server to send spam emails, host illegal files, or even join your server to a botnet. Ransomware attacks are also a growing concern.
Many hacking attempts are carried out by automated scripts designed to find and exploit known vulnerabilities in website software. Here are nine essential tips to help keep your website secure.
1. Keep Software Updated
Keeping all your software up to date is crucial for security. This includes your server’s operating system and third-party software like CMS or forums. Hackers quickly exploit known vulnerabilities, so apply security patches as soon as they’re released. Many CMS platforms notify you of updates, making it easier to stay secure.
2. Protect Against SQL Injection
SQL injection occurs when an attacker manipulates a web form or URL parameter to access or alter your database. This can be prevented by using parameterized queries. Most programming languages support this feature, making it easy to implement.
3. Guard Against XSS Attacks
Cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks inject malicious JavaScript into your web pages, potentially stealing user information or altering content. To prevent this, ensure user-generated content is properly validated and sanitized. Use tools like Content Security Policy (CSP) to control how JavaScript is executed on your site.
4. Limit Error Messages
Be mindful of the information you reveal in error messages. Only display minimal details to users and keep detailed error logs on your server. This prevents attackers from gaining insights into your server’s structure and vulnerabilities.
5. Validate Input on Both Sides
Always validate input on both the client and server sides. Client-side validation can catch simple errors, but server-side validation is essential to prevent the processing of malicious data.
6. Enforce Strong Passwords
Strong passwords are a must for both server access and user accounts. Implement policies requiring complex passwords and store them using secure hashing algorithms like SHA. Consider adding salts to further protect passwords from brute force attacks.
7. Avoid File Uploads When Possible
Allowing file uploads can be risky, as uploaded files might contain scripts that could compromise your server. If file uploads are necessary, strictly validate and control the types of files allowed and store them outside the webroot or in a database.
8. Use HTTPS Everywhere
HTTPS ensures secure communication between your website and users. It’s essential for protecting sensitive data like login credentials and credit card information. Free certificates from Let’s Encrypt make implementing HTTPS across your entire site easy.
9. Test Your Security with Tools
Regularly test your website’s security using tools like penetration testing software. These tools simulate hacker tactics, helping you identify and fix vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
