Running an eCommerce business comes with many rewards, but it also brings serious responsibilities, especially when it comes to security. 

Hackers are constantly trying to break into online shops to steal customer data, take payment information, or damage the website. If your eCommerce brand gets hacked, the results can be costly both financially and to your reputation. Luckily, there are many simple and effective security steps you can take to protect your store.

Choose Secure and Reliable Hosting

Your website host is one of the first lines of defence against hacking. A good hosting provider should offer strong security features, regular updates, and 24/7 support. 

Look for a US-based host that provides firewalls, malware protection, and secure servers. Some hosts also scan your website daily for threats and give you reports on any problems (Source: HostBreach). 

If you’re using Shopify, for example, you’re already getting high-level protection as hosting is included with their platform.

Use Security Plugins and Software

If your eCommerce store is built on platforms like WordPress or WooCommerce, you can install security plugins to give extra protection. These tools help monitor for strange activity, stop unwanted logins, and block known threats. 

Some popular plugins also come with automatic updates and virus scanning. These tools make it harder for hackers to get in and warn you early if there’s any risk.

In 2024, a report found that 52% of eCommerce websites that used strong security plugins had fewer hacking attempts than those with no added protection. (Source: TechNational)

Enable CAPTCHA on Forms

Many attacks on websites come through online forms. These include fake login attempts, spam messages, or bots trying to break through your checkout process. 

One simple but effective way to stop this is by using CAPTCHA forms. CAPTCHA (Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans Apart) helps ensure that only real people can fill out forms, log in, or create accounts. It’s a small tool that adds a big layer of protection.

Set Up Regular Backups

Even with good protection, no system is 100% safe. That’s why it’s important to back up your website often. A backup is a saved copy of your store, including all your products, pages, and customer information. If you ever get hacked, you can restore your website quickly without starting from scratch. Many platforms offer automatic backups daily or weekly. You can also use backup plugins that store your data securely in the cloud.

Update Software and Passwords Regularly

Keeping everything updated is another key step. Hackers often look for weak points in outdated software. That includes your website platform, plugins, payment tools, and any apps you use. Make sure all software is kept up to date with the latest versions.

Also, use strong passwords and change them often. In the UK, 39% of small businesses hit by cyber attacks in 2023 admitted that weak or reused passwords were part of the problem.

By taking these steps using secure hosting, installing plugins, enabling CAPTCHA, keeping backups, and staying updated you give your eCommerce brand the best chance to stay safe from external hacks. Security should never be an afterthought; it’s a vital part of running a trusted online store.