The method
Use in ChatGPT. Refine the prompt by specifying the target WordPress installation type (e.g., e-commerce, blog, portfolio). Paste the generated checklist into a document for easy reference and step-by-step execution.
The prompts
Prompt 1
I need a detailed WordPress security hardening checklist. Consider that my website is an e-commerce platform built on WooCommerce. Include recommendations for securing user accounts, protecting sensitive data (like credit card information), preventing SQL injection attacks, and mitigating cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities. Also, cover best practices for file permissions, database security, and plugin/theme security. Further, provide guidance on setting up a Web Application Firewall (WAF) and implementing regular security audits. Finally, include steps to monitor the website for suspicious activity and respond to security incidents.
Prompt 2
Create a WordPress security hardening checklist focusing on preventative measures for a personal blog with moderate traffic. The blog uses a standard theme and several plugins for social sharing, contact forms, and SEO. Prioritize measures that are easy to implement and maintain without requiring advanced technical skills. Address common vulnerabilities like brute-force attacks, comment spam, and outdated software. Include recommendations for strong password policies, two-factor authentication, regular backups, and limiting administrative access. Provide specific plugin recommendations where applicable and detailed configuration steps that are non-technical.