Overview: Think your WordPress site is secure? Discover 3 major compliance gaps — from missing SSL to outdated plugins — that could leave your site vulnerable. Read on! 

Your WordPress site might look secure on the surface — strong passwords, a security plugin, and regular updates. But real website security isn’t just about preventing hacks; it’s about compliance, too.

Failing to meet basic compliance standards can expose your business or nonprofit to serious legal risks, data breaches, and a damaged reputation. Whether you’re handling client information, donor details, or user activity — it’s your responsibility to keep it all safe and compliant.

Here are three compliance gaps you can’t afford to overlook:

1. No SSL? You’re Already Behind     

If your site still uses HTTP instead of HTTPS, Google already marks it as “Not Secure” — and so do savvy site visitors. But it’s not just about appearances. SSL encryption is a core requirement for compliance with:

• GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation)

• HIPAA (for health-related sites)

• PCI-DSS (for e-commerce transactions)

Fix it: Make sure your hosting plan includes an SSL certificate and that your entire website (not just the homepage) loads securely with HTTPS.

2. Missing or Inadequate Privacy Policy     

Even if you’re not based in the EU or California, privacy laws are tightening around the globe. A generic privacy policy — or worse, no policy — won’t cut it anymore.

Compliance laws like:

• GDPR (EU)

• CCPA/CPRA (California)

• PIPEDA (Canada)

…require transparency about how you collect, store, and share user data.

Fix it: Ensure your privacy policy clearly covers:

• What personal data you collect (forms, cookies, analytics)

• Why you’re collecting it

• How long you store it

• How users can opt out or request deletion

A cookie notice alone is not enough.

>> Related Reading: 7 Things to Include in Your Website’s Privacy Policy

3. Outdated Plugins That Violate Data Protection Rules     

Plugins are the heart of WordPress, but many collect user data or track behavior without your knowledge. Using poorly maintained or third-party plugins that don’t follow compliance standards could lead to data exposure and violations.

Fix it:

• Only use plugins from reputable developers

• Check their last update date and changelog

• Audit your site quarterly to remove inactive or unused plugins

• Make sure contact form, newsletter, and eCommerce plugins are GDPR- and CCPA-compliant

Bonus tip: Always get user consent before activating any cookie-based tracking tools like Google Analytics or Facebook Pixel.

Final Word     

Compliance isn’t just about checking boxes — it’s about protecting your brand, your users, and your peace of mind. A seemingly small oversight, like a missing privacy policy or outdated plugin, can result in massive fines or lost trust.

At MyUnlimitedWP, we don’t just keep WordPress sites running — we help ensure they’re secure, up-to-date, and compliant with key regulations. Let us worry about the tech, so you can focus on your mission.