How to securely have website visitors submit personal information via WordPress

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When you’re running a WordPress website, ensuring the security of personal information submitted by visitors is paramount. With increasing data breaches and privacy concerns, you must implement robust security measures. In this guide, we’ll explore best practices for securing personal information on your WordPress site, including plugin recommendations and practical tips.

Understanding the Importance of Security

Before diving into the how-tos, let’s quickly touch on why securing personal information is crucial. When visitors submit personal data like social security numbers, drivers license, or healthcare information – they trust you to keep that information safe. A data breach can not only damage your reputation but also lead to legal consequences, including jailtime.

Use Secure Forms

To securely collect personal information, you need a reliable form plugin. One standout option is WP Secure Forms by ClikIT. This plugin offers advanced security features that protect data at every step of the submission process.

Key Features of WP Secure Forms by ClikIT

• SSL Encryption: Ensures that data is encrypted during transmission.
• Spam Protection: Built-in tools to block spam submissions.
• Data Storage: Securely stores submitted data within your WordPress database.
• HIPAA Compliance: Helps you comply with data protection regulations.

Implement SSL/TLS

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) or its successor, TLS (Transport Layer Security), encrypts data transmitted between your website and its visitors. Not using SSL can leave your site unsecure, and everytime you login to WordPress your details can be captured. This encryption is crucial for protecting personal information. Here’s how to implement it:

1. Purchase an SSL Certificate: Many hosting providers offer SSL certificates. Alternatively, you can get a free certificate from Let’s Encrypt.
2. Install the Certificate: Follow your hosting provider’s instructions to install the SSL certificate.
3. Update WordPress Settings: In your WordPress dashboard, go to Settings > General, and update your WordPress Address (URL) and Site Address (URL) to use https instead of http.

Regularly Update WordPress

Keeping WordPress core, themes, and plugins updated is essential for security. Updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers. Here’s what to do:

• Enable Automatic Updates: For minor core updates, automatic updates are enabled by default. You can also enable automatic updates for themes and plugins.
• Manual Updates: Regularly check for and install updates from your WordPress dashboard.

Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication

Ensure that all user accounts, especially those with administrative privileges, use strong passwords. Implementing two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security. Here’s how:

1. Use a Strong Password Generator: Tools like LastPass or 1Password can generate and store complex passwords.
2. Enable 2FA: Use plugins like WP 2FA or Two-Factor to enable 2FA for your WordPress site.

Limit Form Fields to Necessary Information

Collect only the information you need. The more data you collect, the more you need to protect. By limiting the amount of personal information, you reduce the risk in case of a breach.

Monitor and Backup Your Website

Regularly monitoring your site for suspicious activity and keeping backups is crucial. Here’s what to do:

• Use a Security Plugin: Plugins like Wordfence or Sucuri can help monitor your site for malware and other security issues.
• Regular Backups: Use plugins like UpdraftPlus or BackupBuddy to schedule regular backups. Store these backups securely off-site.

Educate Your Team

Ensure that everyone with access to your website understands the importance of security. Regular training and updates on security best practices can prevent accidental breaches.

Conclusion

Securing personal information on your WordPress site is essential to maintain trust and comply with data protection regulations. By using secure form plugins like WP Secure Forms by ClikIT, implementing SSL/TLS, keeping your site updated, and following other best practices, you can significantly enhance your website’s security.

Remember, security is an ongoing process. Stay vigilant, stay updated, and always prioritize your visitors’ data privacy.