How to Keep WordPress Plugins Updated and Secure

Outdated WordPress plugins are one of the most common attack vectors for hackers. According to multiple security reports, over 50% of WordPress vulnerabilities come from plugins. Keeping them updated is not optional — it's essential for your site's security and stability.

Why Plugin Updates Matter

• Security patches — Most plugin updates include fixes for discovered vulnerabilities. Delaying updates leaves your site exposed.


• Compatibility — WordPress core updates regularly. Outdated plugins may break with newer WordPress versions.


• Performance — Developers often optimize code and reduce resource usage in newer versions.


• New features — Updates bring improvements and new functionality.

How to Update Plugins Safely

1. Create a backup first — Always back up your database and files before updating. Use plugins like UpdraftPlus or your host's backup tool.


2. Check the changelog — Before updating, read what changed. Major version jumps (e.g., 2.x → 3.x) may include breaking changes.


3. Update one at a time — Don't update all plugins simultaneously. If something breaks, you need to know which update caused it.


4. Test on staging first — If you have a staging environment, test updates there before applying to production.


5. Check your site after each update — Verify key functionality: forms, checkout, login, and important pages.

Enable Automatic Updates (with Caution)

WordPress 5.5+ supports automatic plugin updates. To enable:

1. Go to Plugins → Installed Plugins.


2. Click "Enable auto-updates" next to each plugin.

Alternatively, enable auto-updates for all plugins via wp-config.php:

add_filter('auto_update_plugin', '__return_true');

Warning: Auto-updates can break your site if a plugin update has bugs. Only enable this if you have reliable backups and monitoring in place.

Dealing with Removed Plugins

Sometimes plugins are removed from the WordPress repository due to security issues or policy violations. If InspectWP flags a removed plugin:

1. Deactivate and delete the plugin immediately — Removed plugins often have unpatched vulnerabilities.


2. Find an alternative — Search the WordPress plugin repository for a maintained replacement.


3. Check for residual data — Some plugins leave database tables and options behind. Clean these up manually or use a plugin like WP-Optimize.

Plugin Security Best Practices

• Only install plugins from trusted sources — The official WordPress.org repository, or reputable developers with a track record.


• Remove unused plugins — Deactivated plugins can still be exploited. Delete what you don't use.


• Check last updated date — Plugins not updated in over a year may be abandoned. Consider alternatives.


• Review plugin permissions — Be cautious of plugins requesting excessive file system or network access.


• Limit the number of plugins — Each plugin increases your attack surface. Use only what you truly need.

How InspectWP Helps

InspectWP detects your installed WordPress plugins, checks their current versions against the WordPress repository, and flags outdated ones. It also warns you about plugins that have been removed from the repository — a critical security indicator that is often overlooked.