Hackers are always out there, searching day and night for sites they can easily exploit. If your site is compromised, the fallout can be devastating: damage to your website, reputation and ability to do business.

How can you reduce your chances of being hacked? The most effective approach is to make your site and email more secure. Start by following these simple best practices, which apply to all web platforms.

1. Strengthen all passwords

This is the best way to stop hackers. A strong password:

• is 8 characters or longer

• has upper and lowercase letters

• includes at least one number and one special character

Random passwords are best. Use one of the many random password generators, such as Strong Password Generator, to develop yours. Don’t worry if it’s difficult to remember. Most browsers, email and other programs can now store your passwords, and there are a number of password manager options available. You can even go a step further and use two-factor authentication (2FA) for your applications.

2. Add an email filter

Tired of too much spam? This filter will clean up your inbox. One of the most effective and affordable solutions is Email Defense, found in your Client Area, which provides an advanced spam filter plus virus protection. It helps keep your system safe by blocking spam and placing potentially dangerous emails in quarantine.

3. Enable Secure Socket Layers (SSL) to protect confidential data.

For less than 14 cents per day, you can add 128/256 bit encryption SSL security, found in your Client Area, to protect sensitive customer data on your site. When you purchase and install an SSL certificate, your site will change from HTTP to HTTPS — that’s “S” as in “Secure”. Your customers will instantly recognize that it’s safe to buy from you, which can lead to higher sales. In addition, Google is placing growing emphasis on whether a site is HTTPS, so strengthening security with SSL encryption can also boost your search rankings.

Have a WordPress site? Learn why you’re more vulnerable, and additional ways to boost site security. WordPress is easily the most popular website platform, and its user-friendly design makes it highly susceptible to hacker attacks. Fortunately, there are a number of simple things you can do to better protect your site.

WordPress Security: Hardening Guide, details proven ways to strengthen your WordPress site’s security. Highlights include:

• Keep WordPress updated with the latest version

• Limit login attempts to prevent hackers from gaining access to your site

• Install all-in-one security plugins to handle many security tasks for you