🔒 Outdated Plugins = Hacked Sites
90% of hacks come from outdated plugins. Regular updates patch vulnerabilities. Auto-updates, staging, backups before updating.
📝 Update Strategies
1. Staging → Test updates first 2. Backup → Full backup before update 3. Update → One at a time 4. Test → Check site functionality 5. Production → Deploy Enable auto-updates: WordPress 5.5+ has auto-updates for plugins and themes Maintenance mode plugin: - Show maintenance page during updates - Prevent user access while updating
✅ Best Practices
- Update weekly (check for updates daily)
- Remove unused plugins/themes
- Use reputable plugins (high ratings, active installs)
- Monitor changelog for breaking changes
- Test on staging first
“Site hacked because of outdated plugin. Now updates every week. Security first. Regular updates are non-negotiable.”