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WordPress security headers missing

Missing headers are usually hardening gaps, not proof that a site is compromised. They still give useful security and reliability review signals.

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Problem

Security headers help browsers enforce safer behavior around framing, MIME handling, referrer sharing, transport security, and permissions. WordPress sites often miss them because headers live in hosting, CDN, or server config rather than content.

Common causes

  • Headers are not configured at the host, CDN, or web server layer.
  • A migration changed server config and removed previous hardening rules.
  • Plugins add partial headers but leave gaps or conflicting policies.
  • Strict policies were avoided because checkout, embeds, or third-party scripts were not tested.

What to check

  • Review Strict-Transport-Security, X-Frame-Options or CSP frame rules, X-Content-Type-Options, Referrer-Policy, and Permissions-Policy.
  • Confirm headers do not break checkout, payment redirects, analytics, or embedded services.
  • Add policies in the correct layer: CDN, host, server config, or a trusted hardening plugin.
  • Retest key pages after changes, especially checkout and account flows.

Quick answer

What does this usually mean?

Security headers help browsers enforce safer behavior around framing, MIME handling, referrer sharing, transport security, and permissions. WordPress sites often miss them because headers live in hosting, CDN, or server config rather than content.

What should be checked first?

Review Strict-Transport-Security, X-Frame-Options or CSP frame rules, X-Content-Type-Options, Referrer-Policy, and Permissions-Policy.

Need help checking this on a live store?

Missing headers are useful diagnostic signals. Request a Site Rescue Review if you want the findings prioritized against WooCommerce and business-critical pages.

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