How to Conduct a Website Security Audit: A Step-by-Step Guide

In the digital age, keeping your website secure is non-negotiable. Whether you run a small local business in Melbourne or a growing company across Australia, a comprehensive website security audit is key to protecting your online presence and customer data. At Multidice, we specialise in website design, website development, and digital marketing services that include thorough security assessments to keep your site safe and trustworthy.

This blog will break down exactly how to conduct a website security audit, what tools to use, and best practices tailored for Aussie businesses wanting to safeguard their digital space.

Why is a Website Security Audit Important?

Cyber threats are constantly evolving. Hackers target websites to steal data, spread malware, or disrupt services. Without regular security audits, your Melbourne business website might be vulnerable without you even knowing.

  • Identify Vulnerabilities: Find weak points before attackers do.
  • Protect Customer Data: Ensure compliance with Australian data privacy laws.
  • Maintain Business Continuity: Prevent costly downtime and loss of trust.
  • Improve SEO: Secure websites rank better on Google.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Prepare

Before starting your security audit, make sure you have access to the following:

  • Website Hosting Dashboard: Access to your server and hosting control panel.
  • CMS Admin Panel: If you use WordPress, Joomla, Shopify, etc.
  • Security Tools: Tools like SSL checkers, vulnerability scanners, and malware detection software.
  • Backup System: Always back up your website before auditing to avoid data loss.

Step 2: Check SSL Certificates and HTTPS

A secure website always uses SSL certificates to encrypt data and protect visitors. Verify your site has an active SSL certificate, visible through “https://” and the padlock icon.

Use online tools like SSL Labs to test your SSL setup for errors or weak encryption protocols. At Multidice, we help Melbourne businesses ensure SSL certificates are installed and renewed correctly as part of our website development and digital marketing services.

Step 3: Scan for Vulnerabilities

Run vulnerability scans using tools such as Qualys, Acunetix, or Nessus. These scanners probe your website for common security holes like outdated software, misconfigurations, or weak passwords.

Check for outdated CMS versions, plugins, or themes, which are common entry points for hackers. Keeping your website components updated is a simple but powerful defense.

Step 4: Review User Access and Permissions

Audit who has access to your website backend. Remove inactive users and restrict admin permissions to only trusted personnel. Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible.

At Multidice, we implement secure user roles during our website design and development process, ensuring Australian businesses have tight control over their digital assets.

Step 5: Test for Malware and Suspicious Activity

Use malware scanning tools like Sucuri or Wordfence (for WordPress) to detect malicious code or unauthorized changes. Check server logs for suspicious IP addresses or repeated failed login attempts.

Step 6: Review Backup and Recovery Plans

Ensure your website has a reliable backup system in place. Regular backups enable quick recovery from hacks or data loss. Test restoring backups periodically to confirm they work correctly.

Step 7: Assess Website Performance and Security Together

Security shouldn’t slow down your website. During audits, test website speed and responsiveness. Optimise images, scripts, and SSL configurations to keep your Melbourne business website both secure and fast.

Step 8: Implement Fixes and Follow-Up Monitoring

After identifying vulnerabilities, immediately patch software, strengthen passwords, and fix misconfigurations. Set up ongoing monitoring tools to catch future threats early.

Multidice offers ongoing website maintenance and digital marketing services to keep your Australian business site secure, updated, and performing at its best.

Pro Tips for Melbourne Businesses

  • Educate Your Team: Train staff on cybersecurity best practices.
  • Use Web Application Firewalls (WAF): Adds extra protection layers.
  • Regularly Update Software: Don’t wait for breaches to upgrade.
  • Backup Offsite: Store backups securely away from your main server.

Why Trust Multidice with Your Website Security Audit?

With years of experience in website design, development, and digital marketing services across Melbourne and Australia, Multidice provides tailored security audits that protect your business from evolving cyber threats.

We combine technical expertise with local market knowledge to help your business thrive online — securely and confidently.

Get Started Today

Don’t wait for a breach to take action. Contact Multidice now to schedule your comprehensive website security audit and make your Australian business website safer and stronger.

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Bronze

For small businesses, startups, or individuals needing an affordable, functional website.

$999.00

SAVE 50%

$499.00 /mo

    Custom Website Design & Development

  • Up to 5 pages (Home, About Us, Services, Contact Us, and a blog or portfolio page).
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For businesses needing a professional website with custom features and more sales.

$1999.00

SAVE 50%

$999.00 /mo

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For big businesses needing a powerful website with custom features and more sales.

$5000.00

SAVE 50%

$2499.00 /mo

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