Lesson 5: Find the resources you need

You now know that securing your website is important for protecting you, your brand, and your customers. You know what to look out for and what defense layers you can implement to protect your “castle.” Now, let’s start building your defenses!

Complete a website security audit

First, let’s audit what security feature you currently have in place. Check off all that apply to you:

8 TO-DOS

• Privacy
  I have a domain with privacy.
• Secure CMS
  I have a secure CMS (like a GoDaddy site).
• SSL certificate
  I have an SSL certificate.
• Firewall services
  I purchased firewall services.
• Plugin
  I have a plugin that monitors my site.
• Malware removal/remediation
  I have malware removal/remediation.
• Website backup
  I have a recent, offsite backup of my website.

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Activity: Research the resources you need

If you checked off some of the security items already, way to go! Now, look at the items that aren’t checked off. This is your task for today. Pick a few security features that you haven’t yet implemented for your site and research the best ways to add these security layers. Make an action plan for how and when you will put these features into action.

To help you out, we have a long list of resources to get you started!

Resources to help you protect your website and your business

• WHOIS domain lookup
  Run a lookup on your domain’s registration info (is it private?)
• Wordfence security
  A free WordPress firewall plugin that also scans for malware.
• SSL checker
  Use an SSL checker (checks if you have an SSL or if it has configuration problems).
• Sucuri security
  This WP plugin offers auditing, malware scanning, and security hardening.
• Free website security check & malware scanner
  Scan an existing website URL for malware.
• How to use the WordPress security plugin
  A helpful guide on setting up WordPress’s security plugin.
• How to clean a hacked WordPress site
  A guide on cleaning a hacked WordPress website.
• Pirated WordPress plugins bundled with backdoors
  Why you should avoid “free” premium WordPress plugins.

Congratulations on finishing the Empower by GoDaddy course series! We know the time you’ve invested in learning how to grow your business and build a killer, comprehensive digital brand will pay off. We admire your tenacity and passion, and we can’t wait to see the amazing things you do with your business!