Plugin: JetPack

Normally JetPack is used on sites hosted on WordPress.com and you'd have to have an account and blog on that site. However, it is possible to use JetPack on your WordPress site hosted with us. You will need to use the Unplug Jetpack plugin (See the area on What You'll Need for more information and links). Keep in mind that this plugin puts JetPack in Developer Mode which causes some features will be disabled (such as the General and Security areas). This is why we recommend strongly that you use another security plugin to keep your site secure. However, JetPack also has other popular features that some may want to add to their site.

Normally most of these features can be used safely without any extra consideration. However, there are two feaures that you need to pay attention to and set up so that your site is secure.

The Email Sharing Button

This feature (found in the JetPack Plugin settings Engagement area) allows your visitors to share your articles with others via email. This is turned off by default as it can also cause bots to use it to send spam. If you really need this feature, you will need to protect it. Before turning on this feature, obtain a free Google Account (if you don't already have one) and set up Recaptcha (which is also free). Instructions and links for this are found in the Configuration section.

Contact Form

This feaure is found in the Writing area of JetPack's plugin settings. To help reduce security risk of bots and malware creating forms which can be used to compromise your site, be sure that this feature is turned off. Note that this is usually turned off by default.