If your small business website runs WordPress, it’s worth taking a few minutes to confirm that it’s up to date. In July 2026, WordPress disclosed one of its most significant security vulnerabilities in years.
Most WordPress security issues involve third-party themes or plugins. This one was different: it affected WordPress Core itself, meaning the software at the heart of every WordPress website. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to take control of an affected website without ever logging in.
Additionally, security researchers have reported that vulnerable websites began being actively targeted immediately after the issue became public.
The good news is that checking your website is straightforward. If you’re not sure whether it’s up to date or being maintained properly, I’d be happy to help you take a look.
Is my WordPress website affected?
The vulnerabilities affected recent releases of WordPress, including versions:
- 6.8.0 through 6.8.5
- 6.9.0 through 6.9.4
- 7.0.0 through 7.0.1
WordPress released the following patched versions:
- WordPress 6.8.6
- WordPress 6.9.5
- WordPress 7.0.2
Newer versions should also include the security fixes.
If you know your website is running one of those patched releases or a newer version, it should be protected against these specific vulnerabilities. That said, it’s still worth confirming that the update completed and that the rest of the website is being maintained properly.
If you’re not sure which WordPress version your website uses, have not checked the dashboard recently, or no longer have someone responsible for maintaining your site, it’s a good time to have it reviewed.
How do I check my website?
You can usually find the installed WordPress version by logging in to the website’s administration dashboard. Depending on the version and dashboard setup, it may appear on the main dashboard screen or under the Updates section.
Confirm that the website is running WordPress 6.8.6, 6.9.5, 7.0.2, or a newer release. You should also review the available plugin and theme updates, verify that your backups are working, and check the list of administrator accounts for anyone you do not recognize.
A website that looks normal can still be outdated or vulnerable. Security problems do not always produce a visible error, broken page, or warning for the business owner.
Avoid the stress with my low-cost WordPress website checkup
If you’re not sure whether your WordPress website is current, secure, or being maintained properly, I offer a straightforward WordPress website checkup for $149.
The service includes:
- Confirming your installed WordPress version
- Updating WordPress to an appropriate secure release
- Reviewing and applying routine plugin and theme updates
- Checking for abandoned or unsupported plugins
- Reviewing administrator accounts
- Looking for visible signs of compromise or unexpected changes
- Providing a plain-English summary with recommendations
I’ll handle the immediate security fixes for you, and give you a better understanding of the shape your site is currently in.
Send me a note about your WordPress website and I’ll help you figure out the next step.
Frequently asked questions
My website still works. Do I really need to check it?
Yes. A website can continue looking and functioning normally while running outdated or vulnerable software. Checking the installed version is more reliable than judging the website by its appearance.
Did WordPress install the update automatically?
In many cases, yes. Because of the severity of the issue, WordPress pushed automatic updates to supported websites. It’s still worth confirming that your site actually updated successfully, especially if it hasn’t been maintained recently.
Is updating WordPress enough?
Updating WordPress closes these particular vulnerabilities, but the rest of the site should also be reviewed. Plugins, themes, administrator accounts, hosting, and backups are all part of maintaining a WordPress website.
An update also does not necessarily undo damage if a website was compromised before it was patched.
Should I update my plugins and theme?
Yes. Although this security event involved WordPress Core, outdated plugins and themes remain a common source of website problems. Updates should be applied carefully, with a working backup available in case an older component causes a compatibility issue.
What if I do not know who built or maintains my website?
That’s more common than you might think. Small businesses often inherit websites from a former employee, freelancer, agency, friend, or volunteer who is no longer available.
I’d be happy to review your WordPress website, explain what I find, and help you understand what needs attention. Just send me a quick note.
Is WordPress still a good choice for a small business website?
For many small businesses, a fully custom website is a simpler alternative. I design and build hand-coded websites that deliver the features most businesses actually need—including fast performance, excellent SEO, blogs when appropriate, and ongoing support—without relying on WordPress, page builders, or dozens of plugins.