Common Website Security Threats

Small business websites are frequent targets for cyberattacks because they often lack the advanced protections used by larger organizations. Hackers look for easy entry points—outdated software, weak passwords, insecure hosting, or unprotected forms. Understanding the most common threats is the first step toward protecting your website.

1. Malware Infections

Malware is malicious software injected into your website without your knowledge. It can redirect visitors, steal data, send spam, or damage your site’s files.

• Injected code in files or databases
• Malicious redirects
• SEO spam (pharma hacks, fake pages)

Learn more: How to Protect Your Website From Malware

2. Brute-Force Login Attacks

Hackers use automated tools to guess usernames and passwords until they gain access. Weak or reused passwords make this attack extremely effective.

3. Outdated Software Vulnerabilities

Websites running outdated plugins, themes, or CMS versions are at high risk. Hackers actively scan the internet for known vulnerabilities.

4. SQL Injection Attacks

Poorly secured forms or search fields can allow attackers to inject harmful commands into your database.

5. Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)

XSS attacks inject malicious scripts into your website, often through comment forms or unsecured input fields.

6. Insecure Hosting Environments

Cheap or outdated hosting can expose your website to unnecessary risks, including shared server vulnerabilities and weak security policies.

Learn more: How Hosting Impacts Website Security

7. Phishing & Social Engineering

Attackers may impersonate trusted services to trick you into revealing login credentials or granting access.

8. Lack of SSL Encryption

Without SSL, data sent between your website and visitors is not encrypted, making it easier for attackers to intercept sensitive information.

Learn more: SSL Certificates & Secure Connections

How to Protect Your Website

While threats are constantly evolving, many attacks can be prevented with:

• Strong passwords and access controls
• Regular software updates
• Security monitoring tools
• Reliable backups
• Secure hosting
• SSL certificates

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