As a website owner, logging into your WordPress site to update content or process orders is a routine task. But have you ever paused to consider who actually has access to your digital domain? Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or part of a small team, it’s crucial to manage and monitor who can log in to your site.
Over time, it’s easy to accumulate a long list of users with access to your WordPress dashboard. This might include team members, freelancers, or third-party service providers. However, outdated accounts can pose a significant security risk to your business. If compromised or misused, these accounts could potentially damage your website, harm your company’s reputation, or even put your customers at risk.
In this post, we’ll guide you through the process of auditing and managing access to your WordPress website, ensuring your digital assets remain secure.
Identify and Remove Outdated Accounts
An outdated account refers to any admin account that no longer requires access to your WordPress site. To locate these:
- Navigate to the ‘Users’ option in your WordPress dashboard.
- Select ‘Administrator’ at the top of the page.
- Review the list of users with admin access.
- Identify any users you no longer work with or who don’t need access.
- Remove these outdated accounts promptly.
Consider creating a short video tutorial demonstrating this process to share with your team, ensuring everyone knows how to manage user access effectively.
Strengthen Password Security
Robust password practices are fundamental to website security. Here are some key points to remember:
- Use strong passwords that combine letters, numbers, and special characters.
- Update your passwords every three months.
- Require third-party users to update their passwords regularly as well.
- Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely.
Implement Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your WordPress site. After entering their password, users must complete an additional step, such as entering a code sent via SMS or generated by an authentication app.
As of 2024, several effective 2FA methods for WordPress include:
- Rublon Two-Factor Authentication
- WP 2FA Plugin
- Google Authenticator
- My higher level care plans include 2FA as part of my security suite.
Consider creating a step-by-step guide or video tutorial on setting up 2FA for your preferred method, making it easy for your team to implement this crucial security measure.
Create a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
Developing an SOP for managing website access ensures consistency and thoroughness in your security practices. Your SOP should include:
- Steps to follow when an employee leaves or you stop working with a third party.
- A process for auditing website access every three months.
- Guidelines for password updates and 2FA implementation.
Consider offering this SOP as a downloadable PDF to your newsletter subscribers, providing added value and encouraging sign-ups.
Extend Security Beyond Your Website
Remember, website security is just one piece of the puzzle. Apply these same principles to all your important software tools:
- Supplier portals
- Design tools
- Analytics software
- Accounting systems
Regularly audit access to these tools to maintain comprehensive business security and data integrity.
Auditing and managing access to your WordPress website is a critical aspect of maintaining your online security. By regularly reviewing user accounts, implementing strong password policies, utilizing two-factor authentication, and following a clear SOP, you can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access and potential security breaches.
Remember, in the digital age, your website is often the first point of contact between your business and potential customers. Protecting it is not just about safeguarding your data—it’s about preserving your reputation and ensuring the trust of your clients.
Start implementing these practices today, and make website security an ongoing priority for your business. Your future self (and your customers) will thank you for it.
