The fear of being hacked is something that all website owners are afraid of. With a rapid increase in the number of sites being hacked, it has become the responsibility of every website owner to safeguard their hosting accounts.
Compiled below is a list of thestandard safety rules to be followed to prevent your hosting account from becoming an easy target for hackers.
Regularly Update Your Software and Scripts
It is important to remember that running out-of-date software versions on your hosting account makes it vulnerable to hackers. Fortunately, software developers provide regular updates to overcome any shortcomings or bugs that could have been found in the earlier version. Be sure to download the updated software or sign up for automatic update tools if available.
Use EffectivePasswords
While deciding on a password make sure that you never use a dictionary word, family name, birth date and other information which can be guessed easily. Instead, use passwords that contain case sensitive and alpha numeric characters. Also take time to change your passwords frequently.
Be wary of Plug Ins, Add Ons and Modules
Take care to double check all external plug in devices such as pen drives, scripts, codes, etc., and installations of any file into your system. Also installing a secure antivirus, antimalware and antispyware software on your computer will ensure maximum safety for your hosting account and for visitors who access your web pages.
Ensure Backup for Your Website
A back up of your site will ensure that no data is lost in case you become a victim of hacking. You can make a backup your website within cPanel, by clicking on the Backup Wizard icon. Also make sure your backup files are stored on your own computer or USB drive instead of a web server.
Choose a Reliable Web Host
While choosing a web host make sure you choose someone who takes network and server security very seriously. Your hosting account provider should also offer technical support in case you encounter any problems.
Check Your Log Files on a Regular Basis
Log files, apart from providing information about your server system and user functions, also lets you find out about visitors to your site. Looking through your log files regularly can help you spot any unusual traffic making you aware of hacking activities.
Use Multiple Hosting Accounts
This is necessary only if you own more than one hosting account. Choosing to opt for multiple hosting accounts on different servers spreads the risk of being hacked.
In conclusion, it is advisable that website owners decide to be wary and keep abreast with the latest technology, trends and attacks in order to prevent their hosting accounts from being hacked.
