A Comprehensive Guide to Wi-Fi, Web Hosting, and WordPress Security
Wi-Fi Security: Your First Line of Defense
Public Wi-Fi networks, like those found in most coffee shops and cafes, can be a security risk. Before logging into your website, ensure it’s secured with an SSL certificate.
You can tell your site uses SSL if its URL has a 🔒 lock symbol to the left of the web address in your browser’s address bar. This lock indicates that your connection is encrypted.
If your website doesn’t show this lock icon, contact your web host to set up SSL for your domain. Without it, your login credentials will be sent “in the clear,” meaning anyone monitoring the unsecured Wi-Fi network could easily intercept your username and password.
Using a secure SSL connection is particularly important when traveling. Hackers are known to routinely monitor unprotected networks in hotels and restaurants, looking for unsuspecting tourists connecting to their bank accounts or website dashboards.
Choosing a Secure Web Host: Questions to Ask
Looking for a security-conscious web hosting company? Before you purchase their services, ask them these key questions to gauge their commitment to security.
Hi [Web Host Name],
Can you please provide answers to the following questions about your hosting services?
Does the [enter your service plan] service plan include the following options:
- Secure POP/IMAP available?
- SSH available?
- SFTP available?
- Is an SSL certificate available, and what is the cost?
- Do you scan my site daily for malware and notify me on the same day if malware is found?
- If there is malware on my website, can you assist with its removal, and what is the cost?
- Can you help me ensure my web hosting account is PCI compliant?
- Are daily and weekly backups automated and easy to access? Is there a charge for backup recovery?
Slightly off-topic questions:
- If I have any questions about WordPress or encounter issues with plugins, will you assist me?
- For emergencies or support questions, is there someone I can speak to by phone or real-time chat?
Thank you,
[Your Name]
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Honorable Mentions: Security Resources
Has your email account been compromised?
Have I been pwned? Go here to check if your email address has been compromised in a data breach.
And my article, “Email Blacklist Removal Website Addresses.”
Check your WordPress installation for vulnerabilities:
Recommended WordPress Security Articles
Why I Wrote This Article
Website security awareness is a big part of what we do here. If you find your website has been compromised and have questions, please feel free to call or chat with us. We’ll take care of you like family.
We Fix Hacked Websites™
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