Case Study: WordPress, Squarespace, and Wix Security

Web builder platforms are a great resource for medium to small businesses as they provide an affordable alternative for creating websites. While these web builder sites are great for web design as well as digital marketing packages, there are some concerns related to them. For example, website safety issues are a big problem for most users.

 We are going to talk about choosing a web builder, and the best options for web builder security. Let us start by overviewing the top web building platforms, which are as follows:

We will also mention the top pros and cons of these platforms and discuss the most secure option for your next website design requirement.

WordPress

WordPress is one of the highest-voted platforms known for its unique add-ons, integration detail, and other interactive options. However, it has a reputation for being prone to security issues.

The main reason for such website security issues is that users utilize the worst security practices during their use in most cases. This makes it harder for their WordPress sites to stay secure.

Let us talk about some common security vulnerabilities on WordPress you should keep in mind.

Backdoor Access

Backdoor access refers to unauthorized passageways for hackers and cyber attackers. Most of these attackers use unconventional methods to log in to WordPress sites. This is the most common reason for security Issues for these site users. Several researchers and sources like Sucuri claim that nearly 71% of the data breaches on WordPress happen because of this backdoor access.

Pharma Hacks

The Pharma Hack utilizes rogue codes to install outdated plugins, applications, and codes on WordPress sites. A wide majority of security issues on WordPress occur because of this complication.

This can cause search engines to share pharmaceutical product ads on-site when someone searches for a compromised WordPress page. It is more of a spam-related website builder complexity, rather than malware. However, it is still a big problem for users.

Brute-Force Logins

Brute Force logins use automated scripts that check accounts for a plethora of possible credential combinations for their WordPress pages. Although basic steps like limited site access, blocking IPs, and others help minimize these problems; most users do not implement these methods to tackle security vulnerabilities.

Square Space

Although Squarespace is not as popular as WordPress, it still has over 450,000 sites running on the internet. Like other website building platforms, SquareSpace also has several security vulnerabilities, which include the following:

Server-side Remote Code Execution (RCE)

Server-side remote code execution is the biggest security concern for users on the Squarespace platform. It is dangerous and powerful and lets users execute almost any command on their website. It is primarily a flaw in the security system with Squarespace and affects thousands of users each month.

Cross-site Scripting (XSS)

DOS XSS security issues are quite common as they include using a simple JavaScript in the system that lets the attacker access information. It is an effective tool for unauthorized access and a major concern for users on the Squarespace platform. The website builder’s security is a raging concern, making it unsafe for most users.

SQL Injection (SQLi)

SQL injection involves accessing the site queries, replying to third-party user questions, and compromising their security. The SQL injections are relatively easier to install, and can have a long-term impact on the Squarespace site for users.

DNS Hijacking

The DNS hijacking or Redirecting attack is one of the most common reasons websites on web building platforms suffer. Most of these attacks redirect users to malicious websites, which can compromise their data security.

Session Hijacking

Users have reported scenarios where their sites face online attacks by threats, trying to hijack valid ID sessions. Most of these attacks focus on the site ID access options and exploit them to regain access from authenticated users.

WIX

Wix is very aware of security vulnerabilities that are out there and provides the best security protocols against these scenarios through various tactics. Today, Wix has over 359,998 paid accounts and websites online. Wix is best known for its easy-to-integrate drag and drop design tools and options such as creating a logo or a brand domain name. All these features provide a simpler alternative for businesses that want to create and run a website.

In terms of security concerns on the website, Wix has made it one of their key intents to secure websites made on their platform. They have an all-inclusive security package that abides by theNIST framework, as well as a dedicated security team that constantly improves site security, builds security infrastructure, and helps create defense systems for users by developing and maintaining business continuity, incident response, and disaster recovery plans which are tested and updated periodically. Furthermore, Wix is compiled and certified with the highest international privacy and security standards including:

  • Soc 2 Type 2
  • PCI DSS Level 1
  • ISO (27001, 27701, 27018, 27017)
  • GDPR
  • CCPA
  • LGPD

System Access Controls

Non-open-source web building platforms have complete control over their internal networking and account access information. Special features like access logging, monitoring, and limitation, are essential parts of these system access controls.

Final Verdict

Website building platforms are always at security risks considering they are accessible and public. However, from the research, we conducted it is seen that options like Wix are a better alternative compared to others like WordPress, Squarespace, etc. They offer special security measures like system access control, multiple hosting options, compliance, and certifications, making it the most secure platform for users.

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