In the world of web hosting and ensuring WordPress security, one recurring issue that we at WebHostNepal have encountered is the vulnerability posed by certain file manager plugins. These plugins, particularly the notorious “WP File Manager” have been linked to a significant portion of hacked WordPress sites that we’ve handled. While not a universal problem, it’s alarming how often this specific plugin appears in compromised hosting environments, especially in cases of security breaches.

Let’s dive into this issue further

Understanding Plugins and File Management

Plugins are like add-on tools that enhance the functionality of a WordPress website beyond its core features. File management, a crucial aspect of website administration, can be done in several ways within WordPress.

The native “media manager” in WordPress facilitates image uploads and basic file management directly from the dashboard. Hosting platforms typically offer their own file management systems, albeit with varying degrees of functionality and accessibility. Additionally, FTP access is a robust method for managing files directly on the cPanel server.

The Risks of Third-Party File Managers

Third-party file manager plugins, like “WP File Manager“, introduce potential vulnerabilities. These plugins often come with extensive permissions, granting them significant control over the hosting account. Such broad access can be exploited by malicious actors to compromise the website’s security as well as the entire server.

Identifying the Source of Plugin Installations

Determining who installed these third-party plugins is crucial. It could be a developer looking for convenience, a previous site administrator, or even a third-party contractor hired for specific tasks. Regardless of the origin, the presence of these plugins represents a security risk that needs to be addressed.

Mitigating Post-Hack Fallout

In the unfortunate event of a hack, swift action is imperative. Removing any unnecessary plugins, conducting thorough security audits, and reinforcing access controls are essential steps to mitigate further damage. Implementing robust security measures, such as web application firewalls, can also help prevent future attacks.

Best Practices for Secure File Management

To maintain a secure WordPress environment, it’s essential to adhere to best practices:

• Utilize secure protocols like SFTP or SSH for file management instead of relying solely on plugins.
• Regularly update plugins and themes to patch known vulnerabilities.
• Avoid using nulled or pirated plugins, as they often contain malicious code.
• Delete third-party plugins immediately after use and remove any unnecessary database and files from the file manager within the plugin section.
• Do not allow for file management through WP Admin; opt for secure alternatives like SFTP or SSH.
• Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) rule in Cloudflare to block any requests with the WP File Manager string, reducing the risk of server hits from potential threats.

Immediate Action Steps

• Login to your cPanel and Remove the Plugin: Quickly access your cPanel dashboard and eliminate any suspicious plugins, including those possibly linked to the hack.
• Utilize Imunify360 for Threat Assessment: Find Imunify360 under the cPanel Security Section to analyze potential threats and gain insights into the attack’s nature and severity.
• Consult a WordPress Expert: Engage with a WordPress developer or security specialist to thoroughly investigate and remedy the situation, ensuring comprehensive security measures are in place.

Data Loss Contingency Plan

• Raise a Support Ticket: In case of data loss, promptly submit a support ticket via the client area, detailing the incident for swift restoration.
• Site Restoration Process: Our support team will initiate the restoration process using weekly backups from our FTP Backup Server, ensuring your site returns to its last stable state.
• Collaborative Investigation and Fixes: Work closely with our team post-restoration to identify the cause of data loss and implement necessary security measures, preventing future breaches.

With our backup solutions and collaborative support, we aim to reduce downtime, recover lost data, and fortify your online presence for enhanced security and stability.