WordPress is a widely used platform, making it a prime target for attackers. Among the vulnerabilities often exploited is XML-RPC, a remote procedure call protocol that enables communication between WordPress and external applications. Attackers use XML-RPC for brute force attempts, DDoS attacks, or pingback exploits.

In this article, we’ll explore actionable steps to prevent XML-RPC attacks and secure your WordPress site.

What Is XML-RPC in WordPress?

XML-RPC is a feature that allows external services to interact with WordPress. It supports functions like:

  • Remote publishing from tools like the WordPress mobile app.
  • Pingbacks to notify other blogs of links.
  • Integration with plugins and services like Jetpack.

However, these functionalities come with security risks, especially if not actively used.

Common XML-RPC Attack Types

  1. Brute Force Attacks: Attackers try multiple username-password combinations via XML-RPC.
  2. DDoS Attacks: Using pingbacks, attackers amplify Distributed Denial of Service attacks.
  3. Data Theft: Vulnerable sites risk unauthorized access to sensitive data.

How to Prevent XML-RPC Attacks

1. Disable XML-RPC (Recommended)

Disabling XML-RPC completely is the best way to mitigate risks, especially if you’re not using features like remote publishing or Jetpack.

  • Using Plugins: Install and activate a plugin like “Disable XML-RPC” or “Disable XML-RPC Pingback” to block XML-RPC with a few clicks.

Add Code to functions.php: Add this snippet to your theme’s functions.php file:
php
Copy code
add_filter(‘xmlrpc_enabled’, ‘__return_false’);

Block via .htaccess (For Apache Servers): Add the following to your .htaccess file:
apache
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<Files xmlrpc.php>

    Order Allow,Deny

    Deny from all

</Files>

Block via Nginx: For Nginx servers, add:
nginx
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location = /xmlrpc.php {

    deny all;

}

2. Restrict Access to Trusted IPs

If XML-RPC is essential for your site, restrict access to specific trusted IPs.

For Apache:
apache
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<Files xmlrpc.php>

    Order Deny,Allow

    Deny from all

    Allow from 192.168.1.1

</Files>

For Nginx:
nginx
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location = /xmlrpc.php {

    allow 192.168.1.1;

    deny all;

}

3. Use a Web Application Firewall (WAF)

WAFs filter and block malicious traffic before it reaches your site. Options include:

  • Cloudflare: Add rules to block requests targeting xmlrpc.php.
  • AWS WAF: Customize WAF rules to block threats.
  • Wordfence or Sucuri: WordPress-specific WAFs with built-in XML-RPC protection.

4. Disable Pingbacks

Pingbacks are often exploited for DDoS attacks. Disable them to minimize risk:

  • Navigate to Settings > Discussion in your WordPress admin panel.
  • Uncheck “Allow link notifications from other blogs (pingbacks and trackbacks)”.

5. Enable Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security. Use plugins like:

  • Wordfence Login Security
  • Google Authenticator

This ensures attackers cannot gain access even if they have a valid username and password.

6. Monitor and Throttle XML-RPC Requests

Monitoring traffic can help detect unusual patterns targeting xmlrpc.php.

  • Fail2ban: Configure Fail2ban to monitor logs and block repeated access attempts to xmlrpc.php.
  • Rate-Limiting Plugins: Plugins like “Limit Login Attempts Reloaded” can restrict the number of login attempts via XML-RPC.

7. Hide XML-RPC Endpoint

Change the URL of sensitive endpoints to make them harder to target. Plugins like “WPS Hide Login” can hide both login and XML-RPC URLs.

Additional Security Measures

  • Keep WordPress Updated: Regularly update your WordPress core, themes, and plugins to patch known vulnerabilities.
  • Use Strong Passwords: Ensure all user accounts have strong passwords to reduce brute-force risk.
  • Install Security Plugins: Tools like Wordfence, iThemes Security, or Sucuri add extra layers of protection.

Conclusion

XML-RPC functionality can be useful but is rarely essential for most WordPress sites. Disabling or restricting it significantly reduces the risk of attacks. Combine these preventive measures with regular updates, strong passwords, and a web application firewall to safeguard your WordPress website.

Securing your site today ensures your data and users remain protected from malicious activity.