When you believe something to be the truth for so long, it basically becomes lore. For example, one of the biggest myths is that chameleons change color to blend with their surroundings.
We’re pretty sure they taught that in grade school science class. While it is true to some degree, HowStuffWorks sets the record straight. Chameleons could be described as real-life characters from the movie ‘Inside Out.’ Like Riley, their color change is triggered by their emotions.
So, if they’re feeling angry or afraid, they’ll change colors using their chromatophores. The pigment-rich cells are found in fish, amphibians, and other reptiles. Okay, class dismissed.
Let’s discuss why you’re really here. You’re a small business owner building your online empire using WordPress. In the land of quick setups and plugin jungles, myths about security propagate faster than antivirus updates.
As with color-changing chameleons, WordPress security gets its fair share of bad press. Time to bust those annoying myths.
Myth 1: WordPress is Inherently Insecure
WordPress core hasn’t seen a major security bug since 2017, which is before Taylor Swift unleashed ‘Reputation’ and before any modern DIY website tool felt cool.
So no, WordPress isn’t the digital equivalent of an open barn door.
That said, popularity isn’t a weakness. According to the latest stats, WordPress powers a whopping 43% of the web in 2025, from BBC America to Disney. And that visibility makes hackers salivate for weaknesses.
Myth 2: No One’s Targeting My Small Site
Uh-uh, sweet comfort, gone! Cybernews reports that small businesses are 350% more likely to get attacked than you’d expect. We all know that cybercriminals love low-hanging fruit.
The scary part? About 43% of cyberattacks are aimed right at small fish like you. These aren’t targeted ammo; they’re bots, automated, soulless scanners hunting for misconfigured settings, outdated plugins, or weak passwords.
Myth 3: Plugins Will Crash My Site, so I’m Safer Without Them
Fear of plugins is common, but isn’t the real risk of outdated plugins that go unpatched? Open source code might feel scary. Yet that transparency is a strength because security patches get spotted and shipped fast.
Yes, managing plugin chaos isn’t fun. That’s where AI website builders transform the chaos into control. You get a streamlined setup without the plugin avalanche. Hocoos suggests investing in an online store builder powered by AI tools.
Myth 4: Strong Passwords Are All I Need
Strong passwords help, but they’re not a superhero cape. Relying on them alone is like locking the door and leaving all your valuables in the entryway.
Real safety comes from layers: updated core, smart hosting, sensible configuration, and reliable tools that handle the rest.
These safeguards give you peace of mind and time back to focus on running your business.
Myth 5: WP Automatically Takes Care of Everything
False comfort alert! Sure, WordPress gives you a solid foundation, but it’s not “set-it-and-forget-it.”
Out of the box, you still have to tweak SEO settings, update plugins, and cover security gaps.
Speaking of updates, Search Engine Journal mentions that WordPress 6.8.2 dropped in July 2025, packed with 35 fixes. It also dropped security support for ancient versions such as 4.1–4.6.
If you’re still clinging to those, you are an accident waiting to happen.
Myth 6: Only Big Companies Need Bug Bounty Programs
Nope! It might sound like that enterprise-level Hollywood thing where Google invites hackers on stage.
The truth is that most real-world bug bounty programs are exclusively private. No invite. No entry. No headline-grabbing news.
Still, you don’t need a bug bounty to feel secure. Tools and platforms exist to keep you safe without drawing attention. Some even make security feel invisible.
Why an AI Website Builder Makes Sense for Small Business Owners
You’ve got better things to do than wrestle with WordPress tweaks, security alerts, or .htaccess wrestling matches.
AI website builders are calming, sleek alternatives. Minimal configuration, secure defaults, and flexible enough to make your online presence pop.
- AI-powered designs mean no website-building experience necessary.
- Personalize logos, colors, and images with an AI image completion tool and an AI logo generator.
- Simplify workflow by automating operations.
Don’t Bury Your Head in the Sand
While myths abound, WordPress is powerful, flexible, and yes, secure if you play smart. And if you have a WP website, basic protection is only the start.
Don’t be like an ostrich and bury your head in the sand, hoping that if you ignore those glaring security flaws, they’ll magically go away. Even that’s a myth! No animal buries its head in the sand.
Grasp the truth because your site deserves protection, and not winging it on hope and prayer.