Cybersecurity is one of the most important actions to take to ensure the security of any company's information. If your computer system is compromised, there is a risk that sensitive data of your company and clients may be exposed. That's why it's crucial to know what to do when your WordPress site gets hacked.

My WordPress site has been hacked. What should I do?

If you realize that your WordPress site has been hacked, the first suggestion we can give you is not to panic. This is quite common, and fortunately, there are measures you can take to minimize the damage.

Maintenance mode

Even though many people might tell you to stay calm, it can be difficult to think clearly when you're unsure of the steps to follow. While you calm down, you can put your site in maintenance mode for a few hours until you can start the restoration process without others noticing.

Malware removal service

Next, proceed to remove malware from files or malicious code in the databases. In some cases, these can be found in files or folders in the root of the hosting. If you are familiar with the structure of your installation, you can locate them. Otherwise, it's best to hire a professional service. If this is your case, you can contact us.

Reset passwords

When your WordPress site is hacked, passwords that you don't know are used. That's why it's important to change all passwords to prevent them from being used again. Among others, you should change the WordPress password, SFTP password, database password, as well as the hosting provider's password.

Update plugins

The last step is to update all plugins and themes by accessing Panel - Updates.

How can I protect my WordPress site from future attacks?

If you have experienced a cyber attack, you have probably searched for ways to prevent your WordPress site from being hacked again. To achieve this, you need to implement a hygiene and security protocol to protect your data and information.

One of the most effective measures to protect your site is to use a firewall. The Firewall is designed to prevent malicious traffic from accessing your WordPress site by constantly monitoring incoming traffic to detect and block any threats.

A Web Application Firewall (WAF) functions as a security gate that keeps malicious traffic away from your website by acting as a barrier between your site and visitors.

How does a WAF work?

Essentially, a WAF filters visitors before they access your site and rejects those considered malicious. This type of firewall works as follows:

Application profiling: Application profiles help decipher complexities to identify any signs of threats.

Blacklist signatures: Since online entities are identifiable by digital signatures, if they are detected as malicious, the corresponding signature is blocked before your WordPress site gets hacked.

Correlation engine: The correlation engine aims to compare the normal behavior of an application with its real-time behavior.

DDoS protection: When your WordPress site is hacked, a network called a botnet is created, linking various resources through different requests. The WAF identifies and automatically blocks them.

Preventing your company from being hacked is vital for its success, and you can achieve this by taking protective measures. Therefore, it's important to understand that acquiring a WAF can be considered an excellent investment.