Website security doesn’t just protect your website. It protects your brand and reputation!

Website security is one of those things that most people know something about, but rarely know a lot about. It’s usually left for developers and specialised professionals to deal with on behalf of businesses. Nevertheless, it is good to know something about website security, even if your developer has a handle on things for you.

What is website security?

In a nutshell, website security is an overarching term that refers to many different strategies and digital products that keep a website secure against online threats and hackers. Website security stops criminals from stealing private data, possibly your clients’ sensitive information.

Website security is a broad term that encompasses many things, which is why only trained experts know a lot about it. However, some of the key aspects of website security include secure hosting, SSL certificates and WAFs.

What are SSL certificates and WAFs?

SSL certificates and WAFs are two of the most common aspects of website security – and they’re a great place to start when wanting to know more.

SSL certificates are used by websites to increase their legitimacy, both with website visitors and with Google, and to access an encrypted connection that keeps data safe. SSL certificates are “best practice” for any website, and an absolute must for any sites that collect sensitive data.

A WAF is a Web Application Firewall which inspects the internet traffic before it reaches your website and filters out bad traffic or malicious threats that could damage your site functionality or compromise data. There are different types of WAFs on the market and some might be more suitable for your site than others.

Our team can help you with either of these if needed.

Other security benefits enjoyed by WEBPRO clients

WEBPRO clients with an annual hosting contract or one of our semi-bespoke website templates benefit from first-class hosting services with excellent security, lessening the likelihood of our websites being penetrated by a hacker.

We also provide a back-up service that will restore your site to its former glory in the unlikely event of a hack. Your website will be restored easily and quickly, so your business operations are not disrupted. Moreover, WEBPRO professionals always apply security updates on your behalf to ensure your site is equipped with the most up to date protection.

How important is website security?

Website security is extremely important, and this can be best understood by looking at a case study.

In 2015, two clever cybercriminals hacked telecommunications company, TalkTalk. The company’s lack of secure website protection enabled hackers to steal around 150,000 customers’ personal details. One year later, it was revealed that 95,000 customers had left TalkTalk to use a competing provider, costing them in the region of £60 million.

This is a large-scale example of how a lack of secure website protection can damage a brand and a business’s reputation. TalkTalk customers lost faith in the company and decided to take their business elsewhere. But it could happen to any business that doesn’t use the best and most appropriate website security.

What to do if you think your website has been hacked

The first step to take if you suspect your business website has been compromised is to get in touch with your hosting provider. WEBPRO clients who use our hosting service are encouraged to contact us straight away.

Recap: Most people have some vague understanding of website security. The term can encompass many different things, such as firewalls like WAFs and SSL certificates that provide an encrypted website content. WEBPRO clients already benefit from secure hosting, website restoration and constant updates. All these things protect your brand and your long-term reputation.

P.S. We can make your website more secure if needed. We offer additional website security beyond our already robust and inclusive service.