Security is a top priority for organizations, especially those managing sensitive data in sectors like government and healthcare. IT administrators are crucial in protecting website content, safeguarding user data, and addressing vulnerabilities. A single data breach can jeopardize customer and employee privacy, leading to legal penalties and reputational damage.
These risks are even greater for organizations using open-source content management systems, making Drupal maintenance and support essential for ensuring robust security and minimizing potential threats.
To strengthen security in Drupal environments and protect sensitive information, administrators should follow these best practices:
1. Keep Drupal Updated
Organizations hosting Drupal in private or public data centers should always use the latest version of the platform and its modules. Newer versions include essential security patches that protect against vulnerabilities. Since Drupal is open source and widely used, hackers often have advanced knowledge of these vulnerabilities and may exploit them.
Admins should regularly check the Drupal admin interface and review portal reports to identify and apply any available updates for their current version.
2. Regularly back up your website
Backing up a Drupal website involves creating copies of the site’s database and files to safeguard against data loss. Admins should implement a routine backup schedule and establish a policy requiring multiple backup copies to be stored both on-site and off-site.
Cybersecurity tools like Acronis or custom scripts can automate the backup process, saving time and ensuring consistency. For organizations needing a more robust disaster recovery strategy, tools like Veeam or Rsync can protect server configurations and settings alongside website data. If you’re unsure how to set up a reliable backup system, a professional Drupal agency can help you streamline the process and ensure your website’s security.
3. Configure file permissions securely
File permissions define who can read, write, or execute files on a server. Properly configuring these permissions is key to protecting content from unauthorized access.
Admins should set file permissions immediately after installation and configuration to prevent functionality issues. Delaying this step could lead to permission changes that inadvertently block critical Drupal features.
4. Implement two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication (2FA), a subset of multifactor authentication, adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to verify their identity through two methods, such as a password and a one-time code sent to their device.
To enable 2FA in Drupal, admins can install the two-factor authentication module. This measure should apply to both end users and administrators to enhance security across the platform.
5. Restrict user roles and permissions
Admins must enforce a clear data governance policy that defines user and admin permissions to ensure users can only access the resources they need. Overpermissioned accounts increase the risk of accidental changes or data breaches.
Carefully planning and implementing these policies prevents granting excessive access and keeps sensitive data secure.
6. Monitor logs for suspicious activity
Drupal logs track site activity, including login attempts, configuration changes, and errors. Admins should regularly review these logs to detect anomalies or unauthorized access attempts, such as failed logins, unauthorized admin changes, or activity from untrusted IP addresses.
Security monitoring tools like Watchdog and Splunk can enhance this process by providing real-time alerts based on custom rules, helping admins address vulnerabilities promptly.
7. Use SSL to secure communication
Admins often overlook HTTPS traffic, which refers to the communication between a web browser and a server. Deploying an SSL certificate encrypts this communication, ensuring all authentication and data exchanges between the user’s browser and the web server are secure.
This practice protects sensitive information from being intercepted by malicious actors during transmission.
By following these best practices, organizations can significantly enhance their Drupal website’s security and minimize the risk of data breaches or vulnerabilities.