Last year, almost 96% of businesses in the UK reported being negatively impacted by security breaches. As such, business owners need to prioritise website security more than ever. Neglecting cybersecurity can lead to stolen assets, productivity loss, and a damaged reputation.
As the leading provider of web design services in Croydon and many other areas, we’ve compiled effective strategies that will help safeguard your website from all kinds of attacks.
Choose a reputable web host
Each hosting provider offers unique advantages that can protect your site and enhance user experience. When choosing a web host, ensure they carry these security options:
- SSL – SSL or Secure Sockets Layer uses encryption to prevent customer’s names, addresses, and credit card numbers from being stolen. An SSL certificate is symbolised by a locked padlock symbol on the address bar and “https://” in the URL instead of “http://.”
- SFTP – SFTP stands for Secure File Transfer Protocol. It provides an extra layer of protection when you’re uploading files to your hosting account. SFTP prevents files from being intercepted or altered without your knowledge.
- Backups – Secure web hosts provide a tool in the control panel that allows you to create a backup copy of your website. Backups should be performed regularly to give you peace of mind no matter what happens. After all, it is easier and cheaper to rebuild your site from a backup than from scratch.
We offer our website and email hosting on Google Cloud, offering fast, secure delivery of your emails and website. We provide full hosting support with direct communication to our in-house IT engineers via phone and email.
Install a web application firewall (WAF)
A WAF shields your website from unwanted network traffic. It can be configured to block data from specific locations such as computer network addresses, ports, or applications that can put your site at risk.
A robust WAF protects against a number of malicious activities including hacks, DDoS attacks, SQL injecting, brute force attacks, and cross-site forgery on a continual basis. This allows application security teams to track and respond to vulnerabilities faster. Should a security breach arise, your WAF will help clean your site quickly and efficiently.
Perform regular security checks
Regular website inspections can reveal threats, viruses, malware, and suspicious glitches that need work. You can automate these inspections using a website security checker to save you time and ensure you don’t miss a scheduled test.
At the end of each check, you’ll receive a report that highlights all the vulnerabilities on your site. Some tools classify detected issues according to threat level and recommend a proper course of action on how to best eliminate each of these.
Deploy two-factor authentication
If multiple users have access to your website, consider adding Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for further protection. With a 2FA, users will be required to enter not just the set password but also a short code which is sent to either their email or phone number.
A 2FA code also changes every time the user tries to log in, making it harder for hackers to get through your site. So even if your password falls into the wrong hands, you can rest assured that your site will remain off limits.
Secure your website today
A well-built website will go a long way towards protecting your business. Let our team handle all your website needs and give you peace of mind. Call 020 8776 0400 or send us a message via our contact form and we will be in touch!
