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With more than 40 percent of all websites running on WordPress, it remains a prime target for cybercriminals, given the changing nature of security threats. As 2025 approaches, it will usher in a set of new challenges — and opportunities — for website owners to reinforce their WordPress CMS. If you’re a developer, an entrepreneur, or a blogger, it’s no longer a ‘nice-to-have’; securing your WordPress site is a must-have. At WebFactor, we’re bringing you the best tips to stay one step ahead of hackers in 2025.
1. Keep Everything Updated—Always
Old core files, plugins, and themes are the primary cause of WordPress website hacks. In 2025, automatic updates will be more innovative and more reliable — take them.
Best Practice:
- Enable auto-updates for minor and security releases.
- Continuously review and test plugin and theme support for significant upgrades.
2. Use Trusted Themes and Plugins Only
In 2025, malicious code was embedded in some free third-party themes and plugins.
What to Do:
- Only install plugins or themes from the WordPress repository or from authors you trust.
- Scan for vulnerabilities with the help of tools such as WPScan or Wordfence.
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Brute-force tactics are more sophisticated today. 2FA is a way of adding an extra layer of protection to simple usernames and passwords.
Recommended Tools:
- WP 2FA
- Google Authenticator Plugin
- Duo Two-Factor Authentication
4. Use a Modern Web Application Firewall (WAF)
A WAF screens and monitors all traffic, blocking malicious requests before they reach your site.
Top Options in 2025:
- Cloudflare’s WAF
- Sucuri Firewall
- MalCare Advanced WAF
5. Harden the wp-config.php File
This file contains your database username and password and is one of the most popular targets for attack.
Hardening Tips:
- Move wp-config.php to a directory one level above your document root.
- Disable dashboard file editing:
- define(‘DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT’, true);
6. Use SSL Everywhere
Non-HTTPS sites are already penalized by Google and modern browsers. By 2025, it is the least you can do for your website: SSL is a must for any respectable website.
What You Need:
- Get an SSL certificate (from Let’s Encrypt or your host).
- Force HTTPS through plugins such as Simple SSL.
7. Monitor User Activity and Roles
Between all the collaborative sites and various authors, knowing who contributed is essential.
Use Plugins Like:
- WP Activity Log
- Simple History
- User Role Editor (to limit some rights)
8. Regular Backups Are Your Safety Net
Secure sites are backed up regularly. Cloud-native offerings in 2025 have made it even more straightforward than ever.
Top Backup Plugins:
- UpdraftPlus
- BlogVault
- Jetpack VaultPress Backup
9. Scan for Malware Routinely
A tiny, unnoticed script could be enough to sabotage your SEO and erode the trust of your visitors.
Best Scanning Tools:
- Wordfence Scanner
- MalCare
- Sucuri SiteCheck
10. Choose a Secure Hosting Provider
Your web host is the first line of defense for WordPress security. Hosts in 2025 provide built-in security protection such as malware scanning, server-level firewalls, and DDoS mitigation.
Top Secure Hosts:
- Kinsta
- WP Engine
- SiteGround
Final Thoughts
Protecting your WordPress site in 2025 isn’t about one large thing — it’s about consistently making informed decisions. From firewalls to 2FA to regular updates, each layer reinforces protection. At WebFactor, we guide companies in developing robust WordPress security plans to maintain their online reputation and foster trust with clients.
Don’t know how to protect your WordPress site?
Contact WebFactor now to receive a complimentary security audit and consulting services.