The readme.txt file is a default text file included in WordPress installations. Its primary purpose is to provide essential information about the WordPress installation, including the version, credits, and a brief guide on installation and usage. This file is aptly named readme.txtbecause it is designed to be a “read me first” document, ensuring that users and developers have access to vital details about the software.
In WordPress, the readme.txt serves as a changelog, detailing updates and version history. This transparency helps users and developers understand improvements, bug fixes, or security patches included in the latest versions. The file also credits WordPress contributors, showcasing the open-source community’s collaboration.
While its primary role is informational, the readme.txt file also helps developers identify the WordPress version quickly. This can be particularly useful when troubleshooting or ensuring compatibility with plugins and themes. The name and format ensure it is accessible to anyone using a text editor.
This file is not unique to WordPress; many software packages include a readme.txt for similar purposes. However, in WordPress, it is more than a courtesy—it is a crucial tool for documentation. Unfortunately, its utility also makes it a target for malicious users.
In the context of website security, the readme.txt file can inadvertently expose sensitive information. Hackers and bots often scan for it because it reveals the WordPress version. Knowing this, attackers can exploit vulnerabilities specific to that version.
Despite these risks, the readme.txt file plays a foundational role in WordPress documentation and transparency. Its presence underscores the importance of balancing information accessibility with security.
Do You Need the readme.txt File on Your Server?
Technically, the readme.txt file is not required for your WordPress site to function. The core files, database, and PHP scripts are what drive the functionality of WordPress. Removing or protecting this file will not affect your website’s performance.
However, the file serves an administrative purpose. It is especially useful for developers and administrators when diagnosing issues, updating plugins, or checking compatibility. If you regularly maintain your site, having the file can simplify certain processes.
For general users, keeping the file on your server might not be necessary. Once you’ve reviewed its content or documented the version details elsewhere, it is safe to rename, move, or delete it without any impact on your website’s functionality.
Ultimately, whether to keep the readme.txt file comes down to weighing its utility against the potential security risks. Many security-conscious site owners opt to delete or restrict access to the file to minimize exposure to attackers.
Why Hackers Target the readme.txt File
Hackers and bots frequently attempt to access the readme.txt file because it is a quick and easy way to identify a WordPress site’s version. Armed with this knowledge, they can tailor their attacks to exploit known vulnerabilities in that specific version.
Malicious bots automate scans for readme.txt files across countless websites. These scans are often part of a larger strategy to identify and compromise outdated or poorly secured WordPress installations. By targeting known vulnerabilities, hackers can inject malicious scripts, steal data, or gain unauthorized access.
For advanced hackers, the file can also serve as a starting point for reconnaissance. Once they know the WordPress version, they can look for unpatched plugins or themes commonly associated with that version.
The default presence of the readme.txt file on most WordPress installations makes it a predictable target. Site owners who overlook its security inadvertently leave a potential entry point for attackers.
Content and Protection of the readme.txt File
The readme.txt file typically contains information like the WordPress version, installation guidelines, a changelog, and credits to contributors. While this information is primarily benign, the version number is particularly sensitive as it can lead to targeted attacks.
To protect this file, you can use several strategies:
- Rename or Delete the File: This is the simplest approach to prevent unauthorized access.
- Restrict Access via .htaccess: Use server-side rules to block external access to the file.
- Use a Security Plugin: Many WordPress security plugins can automatically secure or hide sensitive files.
- Keep WordPress Updated: Regular updates minimize the risk of vulnerabilities associated with older versions.
- Monitor Access Logs: Check for repeated attempts to access the
readme.txtfile and block suspicious IPs.
Here are five top security plugins to help protect your WordPress site and secure files like readme.txt:
- Wordfence: Comprehensive security plugin with a firewall and malware scanner.
- Sucuri Security: A robust tool for monitoring, malware cleanup, and file integrity.
- iThemes Security: Offers features like file change detection and brute force protection.
- MalCare Security: Advanced malware detection and removal with an emphasis on ease of use.
- All In One WP Security & Firewall: A user-friendly security plugin for beginners and experts alike.
Example of a Malicious readme.txt File
A typical malicious readme.txt file might be altered to include links to phishing sites or contain injected code designed to exploit server vulnerabilities. Below is an example of what such a file might look like:
WordPress 5.6.1
-----------------
Malicious Code Example:
<script src="http://malicious-site.com/exploit.js"></script>
Visit our site: http://malicious-site.com (DO NOT CLICK)
Installation Instructions:
For security updates, download patches from our "trusted" site.
Such files often appear legitimate but include hidden scripts or links that redirect unsuspecting users to harmful locations.
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So is the readme.txt in wordpress directory safe ?
The WordPress readme.txt file is an essential component of every WordPress installation, serving as a reference for users and developers. However, ensuring you secure WordPress readme.txt is vital because it can expose sensitive version details to potential attackers.
Hackers frequently target the WordPress readme.txt file to exploit vulnerabilities specific to outdated versions. To safeguard your site, it’s crucial to protect readme.txt from hackers by either deleting it, restricting access, or using advanced security plugins.
The importance of readme.txt in WordPress lies in its documentation role. However, leaving it unsecured can pose risks. By employing tools like Wordfence or iThemes Security, you can mitigate these risks and enhance your site’s overall security.
If you want to maintain website safety, learning how to secure WordPress files is a key step. Protecting files like the readme.txt ensures that sensitive data about your WordPress installation remains out of reach from malicious actors.