File Integrity Monitoring

The way it works:

• Baseline Establishment:

  An initial “snapshot” or baseline of the website’s files is taken. This baseline includes cryptographic hash values (like fingerprints) for each file, along with their permissions and other attributes.
• Continuous Monitoring:

  The FIM system regularly compares the current state of the files to this established baseline.
• Detection and Alerting:

  If any discrepancies are found – such as a file being added, deleted, modified, or having its permissions changed – the FIM system generates an alert, notifying the site administrator of the potential security issue.

It’s Importance:

• Malware Detection:

  FIM can quickly detect if malicious code has been injected into core files, themes, or plugins, which is a common method of WordPress site compromise.
• Unauthorized Changes:

  It helps identify unauthorized changes made by attackers, even if they attempt to clear logs or cover their tracks.
• Accidental Modifications:

  FIM can also alert to unintended changes made by administrators or other users that might inadvertently introduce vulnerabilities.
• Compliance:

  For businesses, FIM can be a requirement for various compliance regulations like PCI DSS.
• Faster Recovery:

  Early detection of issues allows for faster response and recovery from security incidents.