Maintaining the security and functionality of a WordPress website is crucial for any small or medium-sized business (SMB).
WordPress is one of the most popular website platforms on the internet and is a common target for cybercriminals. These criminals use automated tools to scan the internet for vulnerable WordPress websites that they can exploit. It’s important for SMBs to regularly update their WordPress plugins and security patches to ensure the website remains secure and free from vulnerabilities.
Why updating is important for SMB WordPress websites
WordPress plugins are add-ons that extend the functionality of a website. Plugins are often created by third-party developers, who may not always have security as their top priority. Cybercriminals can exploit vulnerabilities in plugins to gain access to the website’s backend and take control of the site. By regularly updating plugins, any known vulnerabilities are patched, and new features are added. Not updating plugins exposes your website to known vulnerabilities that cybercriminals seek to exploit.
Risks of not updating plugins and security patches
Security patches are updates to the WordPress core code that fix known vulnerabilities. WordPress core is the underlying code that powers the website, and if there are vulnerabilities in the core code, it can affect the entire website. These vulnerabilities are often discovered by security researchers and are quickly patched by the WordPress development team. Cybercriminals rapidly exploit vulnerabilities in WordPress core, so updating the website to ensure these vulnerabilities are patched regularly is essential.
The consequences of not regularly updating your WordPress website can be severe. Hackers can exploit plugins and WordPress core code vulnerabilities to inject malicious code into the website. This code can redirect visitors to malicious websites or steal sensitive information like credit card details. The website can also send spam emails or perform Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks against other websites. This can lead to the website being blocked by search engines, resulting in a loss of traffic and potential revenue.
Benefits of updating plugins and security patches
In addition to the security benefits of regularly updating plugins and security patches, there are other benefits to keeping your WordPress website up to date. New features are often added to plugins and WordPress core code, which can enhance the website’s functionality and improve the user experience. Bug fixes are also included in updates, which can improve the website’s performance and prevent crashes.
In conclusion, keeping your SMB WordPress website up to date with plugin updates and security patches is crucial for maintaining the website’s security and functionality. The consequences of not updating can be severe and result in losing sensitive data, revenue, and traffic. Updating is a simple process that can be done in a few clicks, and it’s essential to make it a regular part of your website maintenance routine. Regularly updating your website ensures it remains secure and functional and provides the best possible user experience.
At Zookri, we understand the importance of this and offer ongoing support to ensure that your website remains secure and up-to-date. Contact us today to learn how we can help you keep your website running smoothly.
