Running a website is an exciting aspect of operating a business today. It’s a practical approach that can help you reach a larger audience and connect with customers from near and far. But this opens a world of opportunities, and with that comes great responsibility.
Essential Responsibilities For Website Owners
Website security should be a top priority, as plenty of people and programs are searching the internet for vulnerabilities to exploit.
This blog post will discuss common website security threats and how to protect your interests, so you don’t have to spend sleepless nights worrying about these website security concerns.
SSL/TLS Security
Among the most common website security threat is the lack of SSL/TLS security. SSL or Secure Sockets Layer and its successor, TLS or Transport Layer Security, are cryptographic protocols that encrypt data transmitted between a web server and a client’s browser.
Without SSL/TLS, your website is vulnerable to man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks.
Man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks are cyber-attacks where a hacker interlopers and snoop’s communication between two parties, such as a web server and a client’s browser. The attacker can then monitor, alter, or steal exchanged information without either party being aware.
MITM attacks are common and can work in different ways. In addition to targeting insecure websites, attackers can use non-password-protected Wi-Fi networks to intercept communications, use phishing emails to install malware on a user’s device or compromise a router or DNS server to redirect traffic.
If a hacker carries out a successful MITM attack, they can do various things, including:
Steal Sensitive Information – The attacker can steal sensitive information such as login credentials, credit card information, and personal data exchanged and intercepted.
Alter Information – The attacker can alter information exchanged between parties, such as changing a payment amount, redirecting the user to a malicious website, or altering message content.
Install Malware – The attacker can potentially install malware on the user’s device, giving them access to sensitive information or control.
Use SSL/TLS encryption on websites to protect yourself from MITM attacks. Also, secure Wi-Fi networks and ensure your devices and software run the latest versions with security patches.
As a best practice, avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from suspicious emails, and always use encryption and secure connections when transmitting sensitive information. And be sure that you have website SSL/TLS security in place at all times.
Outdated Plugins And CMS Systems
Outdated plugins and content management systems (CMS) can create vulnerabilities easily exploited by cybercriminals. These security holes get used against you to gain access to your website and steal sensitive information. Additionally, outdated CMS or plugins can create performance issues, making your website slower or unresponsive.
Regularly update your CMS and plugins to protect your website from this threat. Most CMS platforms feature an automatic update option to ensure your site runs the latest version. Additionally, you can monitor the plugin developer’s website to receive timely updates and patches for any security vulnerabilities.
Brute Force Attacks
A brute force attack is a malicious hacking technique used by cybercriminals. Brute force attacks get carried out using automated tools that figure out passwords to gain website access. While a bit simple and complicated at the same time, this technique can be effective if you use weak passwords or need to establish account lockout policies.
Use strong and unique passwords to protect your website from brute-force attacks. Combine lower and uppercase letters, numbers, and special characters. You should also set up account lockout policies that temporarily lock out users after several failed login attempts. Other options to increase online security include 2 Factor Authentication requirements, CAPTCHA, or other authentication tools before granting access.
SQL Injection Attacks
In SQL injection attacks, cybercriminals inject malicious code into your website’s SQL query, giving them access to your database and sensitive information. This type of attack is prevalent on websites that use dynamic SQL queries.
You must use parameterized SQL queries to protect your website from SQL injection attacks. This technique uses placeholders substituted with user input, preventing cybercriminals from injecting malicious code into your SQL query.
Final Thoughts
At Interactive Palette, our team of experts provides top-notch website support services, including website security. We can help you implement SSL/TLS security, monitor your website for vulnerabilities, update your CMS and plugins, and provide regular backups to ensure your website remains secure and operational.
Remember, taking the necessary steps to protect your website from security threats is crucial in building trust with your customers and maintaining your brand’s reputation. By partnering with a professional web design firm like Interactive Palette, you can rest assured that your website is safe and secure, leaving you to focus on your business’s growth and success.
