Frequent failed login attempts on your WordPress site, you should look into the potential reasons and remedies.
It takes a lot of effort to create an appealing and user-friendly website. Therefore, it is distressing to watch it slip into the wrong hands due to a failure in security measures implementation. The main concern is repeated notifications that someone is attempting to access your WordPress website using improper credentials.
Let’s look at why your website can be the target of such attacks and what you can do to improve system security.
What Are the Implications of Failed Login Attempts?
WordPress hosts display failed login attempts when a user tries to log in multiple times within a brief timeframe. When you notice the phrase ‘too many unsuccessful login attempts,’ WordPress has identified the problem. Even if you input the right login information, WordPress will not let you in until the wait timer expires. This security feature is specially designed to prevent hackers from gaining unauthorised access to the website via brute force assaults.
An occasional unsuccessful login attempt on your site will not affect its performance. However, focused brute force assaults take an inordinate amount of bandwidth, which might result in a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) and knock your entire website down.
Most attack attempts are not particularly directed at your website. Instead, automated bots are programmed to attempt as many passwords as possible. Furthermore, these bots randomly cruise the web, aiming to take over sites with weak passwords and insecure systems.
These assaults aren’t necessarily prevalent for personal or small company websites, and web hosts should include DDoS protection. Those who install the activity log plugin for their website are occasionally shocked by the amount of failed login attempts.
Managing Multiple Failed Login Attempts
WordPress website security does not always necessitate sophisticated technical skills. Here are some tips for securing your website by utilising simple security practices and technologies.
Maintain Your Website
The WordPress CMS provides regular software updates to improve site performance, including privacy and security. This assists users in ensuring that their websites are protected from dangerous attacks. So, one of the most essential security practices for allowing WordPress to defend you is to update your website.
Surprisingly, less than half of WordPress users are using the most recent version. If your website is running an outdated version, you are more vulnerable to breaches and unauthorised users.
Login Attempts Should Be Limited
Another useful method is to limit the total number of login attempts a user can make. WordPress by default enables an infinite number of login attempts, but you may adjust that. There are two primary approaches.
The first method is to use a plugin like Limit Login Attempts Reloaded. It prevents a username or an IP address from making additional login attempts after a certain number of tries. This makes it extremely difficult, if not impossible, for a hacker to attempt a brute-force assault on your site.
The second method is to use a WordPress server like WP Engine, which limits login attempts as well. WP Engine replaced the Limit Login Attempts plugin with its proprietary security feature six years ago, therefore this was updated.
Think about Web Host Security
The issue isn’t that WordPress is inherently unsafe; rather, most website owners are unaware of the most effective preventative steps available to keep their site secure against the unauthorised entrance. After you’ve secured your credentials, you should think about the security of your hosting provider. The web hosting service provider is critical in assisting you in keeping your server safe.
If your existing web hosting company is untrustworthy, you must migrate your website to a new one. A dependable web hosting service regularly monitors its network for upgrades and suspicious activities within its server.
Use Secure Login Credentials
Many people make the mistake of choosing common usernames/passwords such as “administrator,” “test,” and “admin.” This exposes your website to brute-force assaults, which is why it’s critical to configure unique login information and credentials. To make your password more difficult to guess, use both lowercase and uppercase letters, special characters, and digits.
It is also advisable to consider restricting user IDs on WordPress after several failed login attempts. This drastically reduces the attacker’s chances of guessing your credentials.
Similarly, to safeguard your WordPress site, you may strengthen login security by implementing two-factor authentication. The authentication method adds an extra degree of protection by requiring users to provide a unique code.
Keep Network Security in Mind
A website’s vulnerability does not end with login credentials. Backend operations such as servers and apps that keep your website functioning are additional ways for hackers to access your website. You should use adaptable security platforms, such as cybersecurity software development kits and APIs, to monitor your system and detect security flaws before they cause problems.
Furthermore, before logging into even the most secure WordPress website, be aware of the network you are utilising. Public networks, such as those in libraries and coffee shops, may be vulnerable.
Because your WordPress site does not run in a vacuum, other apps and databases in your system must also be considered as part of your offsite security. If you use cloud-based apps, ensure sure they are securely linked, as cloud-based security differs from traditional platforms.
