5 steps to a secure website in 2024

Introduction

In today's digital world, website security is key to protecting personal and company data and ensuring a safe user experience. With cyber attacks on the rise, it is essential that website owners take the right steps to secure their sites. Here are 5 key steps to help secure your website in 2024.

1. use of HTTPS

Implementing HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) is the first and most important step in securing a website. This protocol provides encryption of the data transmitted between the user's browser and the server, which protects against interception and manipulation of information. An SSL (Secure Socket Layer) certificate not only increases security, but also builds trust with users and can improve a website's search engine positioning.

2. regular updates and patching of gaps

The software on which a website is based, including the content management system (CMS), plug-ins and scripts, should be updated regularly. Software manufacturers often issue updates to patch known security vulnerabilities. Ignoring updates can open the door for cybercriminals to exploit known vulnerabilities and gain unauthorised access to a website.

3. data security through regular backups

Regular backups are key to protecting your website. Automating this process ensures consistency and minimises the risk of data loss. It is important to store backups in different locations to increase data security. Regular testing of backups ensures their usefulness in a crisis, and encryption protects privacy. A proper backup strategy, updated regularly, is essential for effective protection and rapid site restoration in the event of a disaster.

4. use and management of strong passwords

Using strong, unique passwords for all accounts associated with the website is essential. Passwords should be long and contain a combination of letters, numbers and special characters. It is also important to use different passwords for different services and to change them regularly. To make password management easier, consider using a password manager.

5. protection against XSS and CSRF attacks

Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) and Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) attacks are common and can lead to the theft of user data or unauthorised actions on their behalf. To prevent such attacks, it is important to use appropriate security measures, such as validating and sanitizing user input and implementing CSRF tokens in forms.

The article outlines 5 key steps to secure your website in 2024, highlighting the importance of implementing HTTPS, regular software updates, backups, using strong passwords and protecting against XSS and CSRF attacks. These steps are designed to protect personal and company data and keep users safe in the face of increasing cyber attacks.