Some Basic Security Plugins to Keep the Baddies at Bay

A List of Basic Safety Plugins for WordPress

I’m doing a lot of server setups right now for brand new websites and recently updated my basic plugins list. Of course it depends on what kind of website you have, but I’ll share some of the ones I find really helpful in the fight against annoying spam comments and hacking. I know it’s not terribly sexy but an ounce of prevention will save you time and money!

Before you go hog wild, be sure to do a full site backup first. Okay here are the goodies!

Security Plugins for WordPress

Bad Behavior – usually used for blogs, this also helps block spammers from seeing your website. It is not an all-in-one solution but a great additional tool.

Email Address Encoder – many people don’t realize text versions of your email get picked up by spambots. If you are guilty of putting your email address on your website – be sure to install this to encrypt your email address from being scanned in the future.

Login Security Solution – limits number of attempts to break your login page. Also guides you in making a proper password.

Sucuri Plugin* – best in biz security for your WordPress site from malware and blocking known bad IPs. Scary seeing the number of IP addresses blocked from accessing your site! I include this with my security package I do for clients (paid version). * affiliate link

For Folks Using the Blog Function in WordPress

Akismet – simply a must have for blogs. It is a highly effective comment spam prevention tool. You will still get some spam but the majority will get caught at this level.

NoSpamNX – protects your blog from automated spambots.

Growmap Anti Spambot Plugin – adds a checkbox only seen on the browser page for submitting comments. The bots can’t see it, very cool!

Stop Spammers – have a registration page? You might be seeing a lot of fake user accounts being set up as subscribers in your user dashboard tab. In fact, that is the number 1 search term I see with websites is "register" and those are definitely bots.

What are some of your favorite security plugins?

Nancy Seeger

Nancy Seeger, the owner of Arts Assistance, believes website design is part of the marketing toolkit that attracts your audience. Their roster of clients includes a GRAMMY artist, coaches, small businesses and non-profits. Get web design insider tips to more easily manage your website and attract your audience.