How to Resolve “Denied for Too Many Attempts” Lockout Issue

If you’re facing repeated lockouts from your WordPress site with a “Denied for Too Many Attempts” message, don’t panic. This common issue can be caused by various factors, and we’ll guide you through troubleshooting and resolution steps.

Understanding the Problem:

The sudden surge in login attempts, as indicated by your login attempt limit plugin, is alarming. The primary concerns are whether the plugin is malfunctioning, if your site’s database is compromised, or if the high traffic is normal.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Review Login Attempt Limit Plugin: Start by examining the settings of your login attempt limit plugin. Consider temporarily deactivating it and observing if the issue persists. This helps determine if the plugin is the culprit.
2. Assess Security Logs: Analyze the logs provided by the plugin. Look for patterns in failed login attempts, paying attention to unusual activity or potential vulnerabilities.
3. Evaluate Whitelisting Effectiveness: If you’ve attempted to whitelist your username and IP address without success, revisit the whitelisting process. Ensure it’s correctly configured and consider testing it on a separate environment.
4. Check for Compromised Credentials: Confirm that your login credentials are secure. Change passwords for both WordPress and hosting accounts to eliminate the possibility of compromised access.
5. WordPress Core and Plugin Updates: Ensure your WordPress core, themes, and plugins are up to date. Outdated software can be vulnerable to exploits.
6. Server-Side Investigation: Contact GoDaddy support to explore server-side solutions. Inquire about backend table access to reset the “failed login count” for your username.
7. Implement Additional Security Measures: Consider enhancing security with a reputable security plugin. This can provide features such as two-factor authentication and real-time monitoring.

Addressing Concerns:

1. Plugin Reliability: The large number of login attempts may signal a compromised plugin or database. Consider switching to a reputable alternative or consulting the plugin developer for insights.
2. Normalcy of Attacks: Unfortunately, constant hacking attempts are common. Implementing robust security measures can help mitigate such threats.
3. Recovering Login Access: Collaborate with GoDaddy support to assess if backend table access is feasible. They might assist in resetting counters or identifying suspicious activities.
4. PHP Upgrade Impact: The temporary resolution after upgrading PHP could be coincidental. Focus on implementing comprehensive security measures to fortify your site.

Conclusion:

Dealing with a “Denied for Too Many Attempts” situation requires a systematic approach. By following these steps, you’ll be better equipped to identify the root cause and implement effective solutions, ensuring the security and accessibility of your WordPress site.