AI: A double-edged sword for WordPress security
AI is rewriting the rules of cybersecurity. On one side, attackers are using AI to scan for vulnerabilities, crack passwords, and launch coordinated brute-force or phishing campaigns faster than ever. At the same time, security tools are becoming more intelligent. They now flag unusual behaviors, adapt to evolving threats, and protect WordPress sites in real time.
If your security setup is based on yesterday’s threats, you’re already behind.
Why WordPress sites are a prime target
With 43.5% of all websites powered by WordPress, it’s no surprise the platform attracts cyber threats. Every 32 minutes, a WordPress site is attacked. The most common culprits? Outdated plugins (responsible for 95% of vulnerability reports) and poor security configurations.
Add to that the looming EU Cyber Resilience Act deadline in 2026, and the stakes get even higher for B2B companies managing content or configurations on WordPress.
The AI-aware WordPress security checklist
These steps combine foundational best practices with forward-thinking protection against AI-enhanced threats:
Infrastructure & access
- Choose secure hosting:
Go beyond cost and look for active monitoring, server firewalls, and support for the latest PHP and MySQL versions. - Enable HTTPS & SSL:
Essential for encrypting communication, protecting user data, and boosting trust signals. - Use robots.txt smartly:
Block access to sensitive paths like /wp-admin/ and /wp-login.php.
Plugin, theme, and core management
- Keep everything updated:
Plugins and themes are top targets, automate updates where possible. - Delete what you don’t use:
Deactivate ≠ secure. Unused plugins and themes still pose risks. - Install a security plugin (like Wordfence):
Offers AI-enhanced firewalls, attack logs, and real-time threat intelligence.
Login & user role security
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA):
Required for admins. Strongly recommended for editors and contributors. - Customise login URL:
Obscuring /wp-admin/ helps dodge mass login attempts. - Manage user roles carefully:
Apply the least privilege principle, and never share admin access without 2FA. - Change default database prefix:
Use something other than wp_ to reduce risk from automated injection attacks. - Update security keys and salts:
Rotate these regularly for safer login sessions.
Admin controls & visibility
- Disable file editing in the dashboard:
Prevent post-breach changes via wp-config.php. - Hide your WordPress version:
Remove the version number to avoid targeted exploits. - Disable comments (if unused):
Unused features are vulnerabilities waiting to happen. - Obfuscate emails & author URLs:
Protect user identity and avoid enumeration attempts.
Backend & server protection
- Disable XML-RPC:
Unless explicitly needed, block this feature, it’s a known vector for DDoS and brute-force attacks. - Add reCAPTCHA to all forms:
A simple way to defend against AI-bots abusing login and contact forms. - Back-up regularly:
Daily backups are non-negotiable. Store them off-site. - Harden .htaccess files:
Add headers, block suspicious scripts, and prevent directory browsing.
Why this matters more than ever
Implementing this checklist isn’t just about avoiding a hack. It’s about:
- Safeguarding your reputation as a reliable, secure business
- Ensuring GDPR compliance by protecting user data
- Preventing downtime and financial loss from preventable breaches
- Preparing for future AI-enhanced threats
Bonus tip: Use AI as your security assistant
Want to test your code for vulnerabilities quickly?
Use this prompt with ChatGPT or any AI coding assistant:
“Act as a WordPress security auditor. Scan this code for vulnerabilities like SQL injection, XSS, or unsafe file access.”
This is especially helpful for checking custom themes, plugins, or even third-party scripts you’re unsure about. It’s not a replacement for a full audit, but it’s a fast, smart way to catch the obvious before they become serious.
Final thought
The threat landscape is evolving, and so must your security. Don’t let WordPress’s simplicity fool you: it deserves serious protection.
