With 30,000 websites getting hacked every day, it is no surprise that business owners look for effective solutions to protect their websites. Statistics show that 31% of customers won’t trust a company that gets involved with fraudulent transactions, and 60% of small enterprises, whether it be digital marketing that offers dental 3D printing or eco-friendly clothing, shut down six months after a cyber attack.
What Are the Common Website Application Attacks?
SQL Injection
By being able to bypass your authentication process, hackers can have total control over your website. Therefore, they are free to do anything they want, and it can go undetected for a long time. This puts your sensitive data at risk, and your customers might blame you for unauthorized transactions.
Cross-Site Scripting
When a website falls victim to cross-site scripting, the hacker can use it as a tool to infect the user’s computer with malware. This is one of the most common reasons why websites get blacklisted. Once the web page loads on the user’s end, the malware automatically installs behind the background.
Broken Authentication
Non HTTPS websites are prone to broken authentication. With this, hackers can intercept the connection while the information is being transmitted, resulting in identity theft.
System Misconfiguration
This is pretty straightforward. It involves any flaws in your system that can lead to exploitation. That includes outdated software, insecure outbound connections, and server error.
Getting your website hacked can lead to financial loss and a bad brand reputation. Needless to say, having comprehensive website security is crucial! Here’s how:
1. Use a Website Scanner
Scanning your website for viruses and malicious codes is mandatory, not optional. This detects an unknown problem that can lead to code injection. Some of the best website scanners include Comodo Web Inspector, Sucuri, Qualys, and Intruder. Using the combination of advanced cybersecurity tools, they provide an accurate result. Just copy and paste the web address to start a remote scan of your website.
2. Use a Strong Password
Statistics show that brute force attacks increased by 400% in 2017. It is the process of auto-generating passwords using a device to hack accounts. But having a strong password can save you from trouble. According to research, an 11 character password will take 10 years to crack. Make it 12, and it will take 200 years. So do not overlook the importance of using a strong password, as it adds an extra layer of protection. Use password strength checkers to determine how strong your password is- the longer, the better. Two-factor authentication is also recommended to confirm your ownership of the account. This prevents users from logging in without the code sent to the mobile phone.
3. Install Website Security Plugins
This can monitor your website for malicious elements and regularly scan your website for vulnerabilities. Just look for effective website security plugins. But remember to ask for admin assistance before installing one, as they can make changes to your website settings without you knowing it.
4. Scan for Vulnerabilities
These weaknesses can be exploited by hackers to inject malicious code. The sooner you discover the vulnerability, the better. It allows you to patch it immediately to prevent threats from getting through. It is ideal for automating the scanning to prevent delay.
5. Update Software/applications
Updating software is often overlooked, but running outdated software will eventually result in an exploit. Software updates contain new security features designed to counter the latest threats. A regular update is essential to prevent a hack.
6. Get an Advanced Website Security Software
Website security software contains features necessary to protect websites from sophisticated cyberattacks. By constantly monitoring them for malware and suspicious activities, website security software secures all possible malware entries. Once a vulnerability is detected, it is patched immediately. So you won’t have to worry about unknown problems— your security software takes care of it.
It also utilizes your data to detect unwanted traffic that can lead to a DDoS attack. Further, it monitors data transmissions to detect any changes with the server.
Website security software also allows you to tailor your setting based on your company’s needs. Should you need help, they provide 24/7 support. This gives you peace of mind, as you won’t have to worry about your website being flagged as unsafe. You have the assurance that your website is malware-free.
Website protection plays an important role in business. Poor security solutions will eventually lead to a hack. So start enhancing your website security today. Hacking techniques are getting more advanced, do not wait until your website falls victim to them.
