How to Secure a Prestashop Store From Hackers in 2025

In the fast-evolving digital landscape of 2025, ensuring the security of your PrestaShop store is more critical than ever. Cybercriminals are continuously advancing their techniques, targeting eCommerce platforms with sophisticated hacking attempts, malware infections, and data breaches. To safeguard your store, customer data, and overall business reputation, it is essential to implement a robust security framework.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most effective strategies to fortify your PrestaShop store against hackers. From SSL implementation to advanced security scanning you will find everything you need to keep your eCommerce business secure.

1. Implement SSL Certificates for Data Encryption

One of the fundamental security measures for any online store is an SSL (Secure Socket Layer) certificate. SSL encrypts data transmitted between your website and customers, ensuring that sensitive information like credit card details and login credentials remain private and secure.

Why SSL is Important?

• Encrypts communication between users and your store.

• Enhances trust by displaying a padlock icon in the browser.

• Improves SEO rankings, as search engines prioritize HTTPS websites.

• Protects against man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks.

How to Implement SSL in PrestaShop?

1. 1. Purchase an SSL certificate from a reputable provider.

2. 2. Install the certificate on your hosting server.

3. 3. Navigate to Shop Parameters > General in the PrestaShop back office.

4. 4. Enable SSL for the entire website.

2. Conceal Core Files Using .htaccess for Extra Protection

Your .htaccess file plays a crucial role in restricting access to sensitive areas of your store. Proper configuration can prevent unauthorized users from viewing or modifying core files.

Steps to Secure Your PrestaShop Files with .htaccess

• Deny Access to Core Directories: Add the following lines in your .htaccess file to restrict access to critical folders:
  <FilesMatch "(config|admin|download)">

Order Deny,Allow

Deny from all

</FilesMatch>

• Disable Directory Browsing: Prevent visitors from viewing directory contents by adding:
  Options -Indexes

• Restrict Access to the Admin Panel: Allow only specific IP addresses to access the admin page.

3. Optimize Security Settings in PrestaShop

Optimize PrestaShop security by configuring its built-in settings properly. Adjust preferences to strengthen protection, prevent vulnerabilities, and safeguard your online store from threats. Regularly update security measures to ensure a safe shopping experience for customers and protect sensitive business data.

Recommended Security Settings

• Disable unused modules and features to minimize attack vectors.

• Set secure cookie preferences to prevent session hijacking.

• Limit login attempts to prevent brute-force attacks.

4. Strengthen Credentials: Use Strong Passwords & 2FA

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to secure your PrestaShop store is by using strong login credentials. Weak passwords make it easy for hackers to gain unauthorized access to your admin panel.

Best Practices for Stronger Credentials

• Use a combination of uppercase, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

• Avoid common words and easily guessable details like birthdays or "admin123."

• Change passwords regularly and never reuse old ones.

• Implement Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of security.

5. Change the Default Admin URL for Enhanced Security

Hackers frequently attack PrestaShop stores using brute-force methods on the default admin URL. Changing this URL enhances security by making it difficult for attackers to find your login page, reducing the risk of unauthorized access and potential data breaches.

How to Change the Admin URL?

1. 1. Navigate to your PrestaShop installation directory.

2. 2. Locate the admin folder and rename it to something unique (e.g., admin_secure123).

3. 3. Update the configuration settings to reflect the new admin path.

6. Secure File and Folder Permissions

Incorrect file permissions can make your PrestaShop store vulnerable to unauthorized access. Configuring them properly ensures that only authorized users have the necessary access, protecting sensitive data, preventing security breaches, and maintaining the overall integrity of your eCommerce platform.

Recommended Permission Settings

• Files: Set to 644 to allow the owner to read and write, but others can only read.

• Directories: Set to 755 to allow the owner to read, write, and execute, while others can only read and execute.

7. Install Security Modules for Additional Protection

PrestaShop offers various security modules to protect your store from cyber threats. Upkepr provides reliable PrestaShop security modules that enhance protection, prevent vulnerabilities, and safeguard sensitive data. Using these tools helps ensure a secure shopping experience and keeps your eCommerce business safe from potential attacks and unauthorized access.

Must-Have Security Modules

• Firewall Modules: Protect against SQL injections and malicious requests.

• Anti-Malware Scanners: Automatically detect and remove malware.

• Login Security Modules: Restrict login attempts and enforce strong passwords.

8. Regular Backups and Software Updates

Regularly updating your PrestaShop store and maintaining backups are essential security practices. Updates patch vulnerabilities, enhancing protection against cyber threats, while backups ensure data recovery in case of breaches or system failures. These proactive measures help safeguard your store, customer information, and business continuity against potential risks.

Backup and Update Strategies

• Enable automatic backups to protect against data loss.

• Regularly update PrestaShop, themes, and modules to patch vulnerabilities.

• Store backups on a secure offsite location to prevent loss in case of an attack.

9. Antivirus Installation and Firewall Activation

Protecting your PrestaShop store and server from malware and unauthorized access is vital for security. Implementing firewalls, using strong passwords, regularly updating software, and scanning for threats help prevent cyberattacks. Secure hosting and monitoring tools, like Upkepr security modules, further enhance protection, ensuring a safe and reliable eCommerce environment for your business and customers.

Essential Security Measures

• Install server-level antivirus software to scan and remove malicious files.

• Activate a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to filter malicious traffic.

• Monitor logs for suspicious activities and take immediate action.

10. Regular Security Scanning with UpKepr

To protect your PrestaShop store from cyber threats, regular security audits are essential. UpKepr PrestaShop security scanner helps identify vulnerabilities, ensuring your store remains secure.

How UpKepr Enhances Security?

• Detects security risks and vulnerabilities in your PrestaShop store.

• Provides actionable recommendations to fix security loopholes.

• Monitors store updates to ensure important patches are applied.

By integrating UpKepr security tools, you can proactively safeguard your store, prevent unauthorized access, and enhance overall protection. Regular scans help you stay ahead of potential threats, keeping your eCommerce business safe and ensuring a secure shopping experience for your customers.

Conclusion

Securing your PrestaShop store in 2025 requires a proactive and multi-layered approach. By implementing SSL, strengthening credentials, securing file permissions, optimizing settings, installing security modules, and using UpKepr PrestaShop vulnerability scanner online, you can significantly reduce the risk of cyber threats.

Taking these steps ensures a secure and trustworthy shopping experience for your customers while protecting your business from potential financial and reputational damage. Stay vigilant, keep your store updated, and prioritize security to maintain a successful eCommerce presence in 2025 and beyond!