When it comes to understanding how to make a website, website security should be at the top of your list of priorities.
As the number of websites globally grows, to a record 2 billion websites as of 2025, the number of cyber attacks increases in tandem. Attacks on websites in the United States have increased almost 400% since 2020, with the FBI reporting up to 4,000 cyberattacks a day. It’s also estimated that in 2025, the number of DDoS (distributed denial of service) attacks will rise significantly compared to previous years, with experts expecting an increase in both their frequency and severity.
The increasing sophistication of cyber attacks makes all websites vulnerable to security and privacy breaches. Knowing how to secure your site against these attacks is crucial to protect your data and that of your users. In this article, we’ll discuss website security in depth, going over ways to ensure cyber protection, from choosing the right website builder to improving your website security and protecting your business.
What is Website Security?
Website security is the protection of your site and your site’s infrastructure from malicious online attackers who can access, alter, and steal your site’s content and data. It should also protect the personal data and privacy of your site’s users. Every individual or business with a website should have a comprehensive understanding of cybersecurity basics to ensure their website is safe from attacks.
You need to trust that your site and its data are secure. Cyber attacks are on the rise and growing increasingly more sophisticated. This makes them difficult for security professionals to spot, let alone website creators. The right website builder will prioritize security so you can focus on your business.
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Website Security Threat Examples
SQL Injections
SQL injections involve the use of structured query language to take control of a database and extract sensitive information. These attacks can modify or delete information and retrieve passwords or user data. Akamai’s State of the Internet/Security Report recorded 6.2 billion attempted SQL injections between January 2020 and June 2021, placing them at the top of the most common web attacks.
Ransomware
Ransomware is malicious software that locks access to systems and demands a ransom for release. In 2021, hospitals, government bodies, and corporations were victims. Most ransomware attacks begin with phishing emails. In the first half of 2021 alone, the FBI reported a 62% year-on-year increase in ransomware attacks.
Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
XSS attacks inject malicious JavaScript into trusted websites, stealing cookies or secure user data. Browsers render all text, regardless of its nature, making XSS a frequent threat. Between January 2020 and June 2021, there were approximately 1.019 billion such attacks.
Credential Reuse
Many users reuse credentials across platforms. If these are compromised, hackers gain access to multiple sites. Credential reuse attacks are common due to this repetitive use.
DoS/DDoS Attacks
DoS and DDoS attacks flood servers with fake traffic to render a site inaccessible. These attacks lead to downtime, which damages reputation and business performance.
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How to Check How Secure Your Site Is
To stay ahead of online threats:
- Use CISA’s cybersecurity advisories: Subscribe to updates.
- Web application firewalls (WAF): Tools like Cloudflare, Sucuri, or AWS WAF protect against SQL and XSS attacks.
- Vulnerability scanners: Tools like Nessus, OpenVAS, or Acunetix help detect weaknesses.
- Intrusion detection systems (IDS): Snort and OSSEC monitor traffic for suspicious behavior.
How to Secure Your Website
01. Core Platform and 3rd Party Updates
Ensure your platform offers 24/7 monitoring, automatic security patches, and fewer dependencies on third-party apps.
02. SSL and HTTPS Protocols
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encrypts communication between users and servers. Modern builders like Wix come with SSL and TLS 1.2 by default. Look for the padlock icon or “https” in the URL.
03. Secure Web Hosting
Reliable web hosting protects against server-side attacks. Choose GDPR-compliant hosts with a CDN (Content Delivery Network), 24/7 monitoring, and bug bounty programs.
04. Established and Restricted Admin Privileges
Grant admin access based on necessity. Limit full access and create a clear security policy regarding passwords, app installations, and general responsibilities.
05. Site Backup
Backup your website regularly. Builders like Wix automatically back up data, but if you’re managing your own hosting, use tools to schedule and store backups off-site.
06. Change Default CMS Settings
Change the default settings of your CMS. Tweak comment settings, login URLs, user roles, and install anti-spam tools.
07. Follow Password Best Practices
Use strong, unique passwords and change them regularly. Encourage your team to use password managers and implement two-factor authentication wherever possible.
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Conclusion
Cybersecurity is no longer optional. It’s an essential component of owning and operating a successful website. With millions of attacks occurring daily, having a secure website means protecting not just your business, but also your users.
Choose the right builder, follow best practices, stay informed of threats, and regularly audit your site. Your digital presence depends on it.
