Website security is not sexy. It’s one of the things at the bottom of the list when you build your site. It shouldn’t be.
Aside from the many threats floating in cyberspace, cybersecurity has been a hot topic in the past few years, particularly in legal circles.
Last year, a record-breaking $1.45 billion in fines have been paid across the US and Europe after security regulator evaluations.
Even if you think your website isn’t worth hacking, there is more to breaches than accessing your data. Most of the time, the hackers use servers for a number of illegal activities.
But it’s not all hopeless. Here is a list of things you can do now to avoid the hassles of cybersecurity breaches.
Update all your software.
Unless you’re using a managed hosting solution, keep your server operating system updated. You should also keep track of other software running on your website like a CMS. They often have their own security patches. Keep them updated, as well. Hackers usually target gaps in the security of your software. There are a number of tools that notify you whenever vulnerabilities are present.
Beware of SQL injection attacks.
SQL injection is a common code injection technique that places harmful code on your system to do a number of things to your database. Learn how to implement parameterized queries in your code to prevent this type of attack.
Beware of XSS attacks.
Cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks target your users by inserting a harmful JavaScript into your pages. In some cases, hackers can gain access to the accounts of your users and act on their behalf. Defending against XSS attacks is similar to preventing SQL injection attacks. Make sure the functions you use on your code explicitly detail what can be done so there is no room for attackers to get in.
Avoid file uploads.
When users upload files, you’re opening up your website to a range of potential threats, no matter how seemingly innocent their files are. The best thing to do is to make sure users cannot execute the files they upload.
You can do this by renaming the file once it’s up on your site. You can also prevent users from accessing the files they upload. If possible, use a different server for your database as an added security measure.
Install Security Tools.
A number of security tools help check for vulnerabilities against XSS and SQL injection attacks. Focus on potential issues that may be revealed by your tests.
There are also tools to protect your database. Website archive tools provide you with automatic backups to your precious data. Should the need arise, you will have an easier data recovery time with this.
Installing a reliable antivirus on your computer network will add an extra layer of protection to your website during all the times you access it from there.
Consider using an encryption software to protect your data. Once encrypted, viewing your data will not be possible even if hackers get a hold of them.
Cybersecurity threats are here to stay. Protecting your website is a continuous process that requires vigilance and commitment. Remember these tips and hang on to your peace of mind.
