5 Ways to Keep Your VPS Safe from Phishing & Malware

Running a VPS gives you full control and flexibility, but it also means you’re responsible for keeping it secure. One of the biggest threats in 2025 continues to be phishing and malware attacks. These threats can compromise your VPS, steal data, or even turn your server into a botnet.

At Hosteons, we provide the tools and freedom to secure your VPS, but it’s up to you to take the right precautions. Here are 5 proven ways to protect your VPS from phishing and malware attacks.


1. 🔑 Use Strong Authentication

Phishing often targets weak credentials.

  • Disable password logins for SSH and use SSH key authentication.
  • Set up 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication) for control panels and CMS logins.
  • Regularly update and rotate your passwords if they’re in use.

2. 🛡 Install Firewalls & Intrusion Prevention

A firewall blocks suspicious traffic before it reaches your VPS.

  • Use UFW (Ubuntu) or CSF (CentOS/AlmaLinux) to control access.
  • Install Fail2Ban to detect and block repeated login attempts.
  • Consider a Web Application Firewall (WAF) for website protection.

3. ⚡ Keep Software & Applications Updated

Outdated software is one of the most common malware entry points.

  • Regularly update your OS, web server, CMS, and plugins.
  • Remove unused or outdated packages.
  • Automate updates where possible for security patches.

4. 🧹 Scan & Monitor Your VPS Regularly

Detect malware before it causes damage.

  • Use tools like ClamAV or Maldet to scan files.
  • Monitor logs with Logwatch or real-time monitoring solutions.
  • Set up alerts for unusual activity such as high CPU usage or unexpected traffic spikes.

5. 📂 Backup & Recovery Plan

Even with strong defenses, no system is 100% safe.

  • Schedule automated backups of your VPS.
  • Store backups on remote servers or cloud storage.
  • Test your restore process so you can recover quickly if attacked.

🚀 How Hosteons Helps You Stay Secure

When you choose Hosteons VPS or VDS hosting, you get:

  • Full root access to implement custom security measures
  • High-speed 10Gbps ports for secure, fast transfers
  • Easy-to-use control panel with Virtualizor for backup management
  • Privacy-first hosting with No-KYC signups
  • Flexible payment options, including crypto and local gateways

✅ Conclusion

Phishing and malware attacks are not going away, but with the right precautions, you can keep your VPS safe. By combining strong authentication, firewalls, updates, monitoring, and backups, you’ll minimize risks and ensure your VPS stays reliable and secure.

At Hosteons, we give you the infrastructure and freedom to protect your VPS your way.

👉 Explore our VPS & VDS hosting plans: https://hosteons.com

Brute-Force Attacks Explained and How to Prevent Them

One of the most common threats faced by servers and websites today is the brute-force attack. Whether you’re hosting a blog, an e-commerce store, or applications on a VPS, understanding brute-force attacks is essential for keeping your data and users safe.

At Hosteons, we take server security seriously and encourage all customers to harden their VPS right after deployment. Here’s everything you need to know about brute-force attacks — and how to prevent them.


🔎 What Is a Brute-Force Attack?

A brute-force attack is when hackers try to guess login credentials by repeatedly attempting different combinations of usernames and passwords. They use automated tools that can test thousands (even millions) of combinations in minutes.

The goal is simple: gain unauthorized access to your VPS, control panel, CMS (like WordPress), or email accounts.


⚠️ Why Brute-Force Attacks Are Dangerous

  • Unauthorized Access – Hackers can gain root or admin access.
  • Data Theft – Sensitive customer or business data may be stolen.
  • Malware Installation – Attackers may install ransomware or backdoors.
  • Resource Overload – Constant login attempts can overload your server.

🛡 How to Prevent Brute-Force Attacks

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Avoid simple or repeated passwords. Use a password manager to generate and store complex credentials.

2. Enable SSH Key Authentication

For VPS access, disable password logins and use SSH keys instead. This makes brute-force attempts nearly impossible.

3. Change Default Ports

Move services like SSH (default port 22) or RDP (default port 3389) to non-standard ports to reduce automated attack attempts.

4. Install Fail2Ban or CSF

These tools monitor login attempts and automatically ban IPs showing suspicious activity.

5. Limit Login Attempts

Configure your CMS or control panel to lock accounts after too many failed attempts.

6. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Adding an extra verification step ensures attackers can’t get in even if they guess the password.

7. Monitor Logs Regularly

Check your server logs to detect unusual login attempts early.

8. Keep Software Updated

Outdated software often has vulnerabilities that brute-force bots exploit.


🚀 How Hosteons Helps Keep You Secure

When you choose Hosteons VPS or VDS hosting, you get:

  • Full root access to configure strong security
  • Ability to install Fail2Ban, CSF, or WAFs
  • Support for 10Gbps ports to handle high traffic securely
  • No-KYC hosting with privacy-friendly payment options
  • Global server locations with reliable infrastructure

✅ Conclusion

Brute-force attacks are one of the oldest tricks in the hacker’s playbook, but they remain a serious threat. The good news? With a few proactive steps like using SSH keys, enabling firewalls, and monitoring logs, you can effectively protect your VPS and websites.

At Hosteons, we provide the tools and flexibility to secure your hosting environment from day one.

👉 Explore our VPS and VDS plans today: https://hosteons.com

How to Protect Your VPS from Hackers in 2025

Virtual Private Server (VPS) gives you power, control, and flexibility for hosting your websites, apps, or projects. But with great control comes great responsibility — and in 2025, cyberattacks are more sophisticated than ever. To keep your VPS safe, you need to apply strong security measures right after deployment and maintain them regularly.

At Hosteons, we encourage all VPS users to take security seriously. Here’s how to protect your VPS from hackers in 2025.


🔑 1. Use Strong Authentication

  • Change the default SSH port from 22 to something less predictable.
  • Disable password-based logins and switch to SSH key authentication.
  • Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts if passwords are unavoidable.

🔒 2. Keep Software Updated

Hackers often exploit outdated software. Run regular updates on your VPS:

apt update && apt upgrade -y   # Ubuntu/Debian  
yum update -y                  # CentOS/AlmaLinux  

Enable automatic security updates where possible.


🛡 3. Configure a Firewall

Set up firewalls like UFW (Uncomplicated Firewall) or CSF to allow only necessary traffic and block everything else. Combine it with Fail2Ban to automatically block suspicious IPs.


🚨 4. Monitor and Audit Logs

Use tools like LogwatchGoAccess, or external monitoring systems to watch login attempts, unusual traffic, and system resource spikes. Early detection helps prevent breaches.


👤 5. Limit Root Access

  • Create a separate user with sudo privileges.
  • Disable direct root login via SSH.
  • Use role-based access if multiple people manage the server.

🔐 6. Secure Applications and Databases

  • Keep web apps, CMS platforms (like WordPress), and plugins up to date.
  • Restrict database access to localhost unless remote access is absolutely required.
  • Use strong credentials for MySQL/MariaDB and any control panels.

📦 7. Enable Regular Backups

Even with the best defenses, no system is 100% secure. Automated backups ensure you can recover quickly in case of a hack, data corruption, or accidental deletion.


🌐 8. Consider a WAF or DDoS Protection

Adding a Web Application Firewall (WAF) or enabling DDoS mitigation can stop malicious traffic before it reaches your VPS. Cloudflare and other providers offer affordable protection options.


🚀 Why Choose Hosteons for a Secure VPS?

At Hosteons, we provide VPS hosting with:

  • Full root access so you can configure security your way
  • 10Gbps network ports for reliable performance
  • No-KYC signups for privacy-conscious users
  • Global locations in the US and EU for low-latency access

👉 Explore our VPS & VDS plans here:


✅ Conclusion

Hackers are always looking for new ways to exploit vulnerable servers, but by following these security steps, you can significantly reduce risks. In 2025, protecting your VPS means combining basic hardening techniques, continuous monitoring, and proactive backups.

With the right precautions, your VPS will remain secure, reliable, and hacker-resistant.

Top Security Steps You Should Take After Buying a VPS

Virtual Private Server (VPS) gives you power, flexibility, and control over your hosting environment. But with that control comes responsibility — especially when it comes to security. Right after you deploy a VPS, there are essential steps you should take to protect it from hackers, malware, and unauthorized access.

At Hosteons, we want our customers to stay secure from day one. Here’s a checklist of the top security steps you should take after purchasing a VPS.


🔑 1. Change the Default SSH Port

Most VPS servers use port 22 for SSH access by default, which makes it an easy target for brute-force attacks. Change it to a non-standard port for better protection.


🔒 2. Set Up SSH Keys Instead of Passwords

Using passwords alone is risky. Instead, configure SSH key authentication. This ensures only devices with the correct private key can access your VPS.


🛡 3. Configure a Firewall

Install and configure a firewall like UFW (Uncomplicated Firewall) or CSF (ConfigServer Security & Firewall) to block unauthorized traffic and allow only the services you need.


🚨 4. Install Fail2Ban

Fail2Ban helps prevent brute-force attacks by banning IPs that show malicious behavior, such as repeated failed login attempts.


📦 5. Keep Your System Updated

Always run system updates regularly:

apt update && apt upgrade -y   # Ubuntu/Debian  
yum update -y                  # CentOS/AlmaLinux  

This ensures you have the latest security patches.


👤 6. Create a Non-Root User

Running everything as root is risky. Create a regular user account with sudo privileges to reduce exposure if compromised.


🔐 7. Secure Critical Services

  • Disable unused services to reduce entry points.
  • Restrict database access to localhost unless remote access is absolutely necessary.
  • Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts.

📂 8. Enable Automatic Backups

Even with strong security, accidents can happen. Enable automated VPS backups through the Virtualizor panel or cron jobs to ensure you can recover quickly.


🚀 Bonus: Use Monitoring Tools

Set up monitoring tools like Logwatch or integrate with external monitoring services to get alerts about suspicious activity.


✅ Conclusion

Securing your VPS right after purchase is the most important step you can take to protect your data, applications, and users. By following this checklist, you’ll reduce risks and keep your server safe from the start.

At Hosteons, we provide VPS with 10Gbps ports, multiple global locations, and full root access, giving you the flexibility to apply all these security best practices easily.

👉 Explore our VPS plans today:

Firewall vs WAF: Which One Does Your Website Need?

When it comes to securing your website or VPS, two terms often come up: Firewall and WAF (Web Application Firewall). While they sound similar, they serve different purposes. Choosing the right one—or knowing when to use both—is crucial for protecting your applications and data from cyber threats.

In this article, we’ll break down the differences, benefits, and best use cases for Firewalls and WAFs.


✅ What is a Firewall?

firewall is a network security system that filters incoming and outgoing traffic based on predefined rules. It operates at the network and transport layers (Layer 3 and Layer 4 of the OSI model).

What it does:

  • Blocks unauthorized access to your VPS or network
  • Controls which IP addresses, ports, and protocols can communicate
  • Prevents brute-force attacks and scans

Types of Firewalls:

  • Host-based (e.g., UFW, Firewalld)
  • Network-based (hardware or cloud)

Example: Blocking all ports except 80 (HTTP), 443 (HTTPS), and SSH.


✅ What is a WAF (Web Application Firewall)?

Web Application Firewall protects web applications by filtering HTTP/S traffic. It operates at the application layer(Layer 7 of the OSI model) and is designed to prevent attacks like:

  • SQL Injection
  • Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
  • File Inclusion Attacks
  • OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities

How it works:

  • Analyzes HTTP requests before they reach your application
  • Blocks malicious patterns in URL, headers, or payload
  • Can be deployed as a reverse proxy (e.g., Cloudflare, AWS WAF)

✅ Firewall vs WAF: Key Differences

FeatureFirewallWAF
LayerNetwork (Layer 3/4)Application (Layer 7)
Protection FocusIPs, Ports, ProtocolsHTTP/S requests and app vulnerabilities
BlocksUnauthorized access, brute forceSQL Injection, XSS, Web Exploits
DeploymentServer or Network LevelApplication or CDN Level

✅ Do You Need Both?

Yes, in most cases.

  • Firewall ensures your VPS isn’t exposed to unnecessary ports or traffic.
  • WAF adds another layer by inspecting HTTP/S traffic for malicious patterns.

Think of it like this:

  • Firewall = Lock on your front door
  • WAF = Security guard checking IDs at the entrance

✅ Best Practices for VPS Security

  • Enable a firewall on your VPS using UFW or Firewalld.
  • Install Fail2Ban to protect against brute-force attempts.
  • Use a WAF service like Cloudflare for application-layer protection.
  • Keep your apps and OS updated to avoid zero-day vulnerabilities.
  • Take regular backups for quick recovery.

✅ Hosteons VPS Security Advantage

At Hosteons, all VPS plans are designed for security:

  • Full root access to configure UFW, CSF, or any firewall
  • 10Gbps network ports for fast, secure connectivity
  • Compatible with Cloudflare WAF and other security tools

👉 Explore plans:


Final Thoughts

A firewall and a WAF are not competitors—they complement each other. Use both to achieve comprehensive protectionfor your VPS and websites.

How to Protect Your VPS Against Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware attacks have become one of the most dangerous cybersecurity threats in recent years. These attacks encrypt your data and demand a ransom for its release, causing downtime, financial losses, and sometimes permanent data loss.

If you’re running a VPS, you are a target—but with the right security practices, you can significantly reduce the risk. In this guide, we’ll show you how to protect your VPS from ransomware attacks.


✅ 

What is Ransomware and Why Target VPS?

Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts your files or system, rendering them unusable until a ransom is paid. VPS servers are attractive targets because:

  • They often host business-critical applications
  • Many users fail to apply security updates
  • Weak configurations leave them exposed to attacks

Top Ways to Secure Your VPS from Ransomware


✅ 

1. Keep Your System Updated

Unpatched systems are the most common entry point for attackers.

Update your VPS regularly:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y   # For Debian/Ubuntu
sudo dnf update -y                      # For CentOS/AlmaLinux

✅ 

2. Use Strong SSH Security

  • Disable root login
  • Use SSH keys instead of passwords
  • Change the default SSH port

Example:

PermitRootLogin no
PasswordAuthentication no
Port 2222

Restart SSH:

systemctl restart ssh

✅ 

3. Enable a Firewall

Limit access to essential ports only.

For Ubuntu/Debian:

sudo ufw allow 2222/tcp
sudo ufw allow 80/tcp
sudo ufw allow 443/tcp
sudo ufw enable

✅ 

4. Install Fail2Ban

Block brute-force attempts:

sudo apt install fail2ban -y    # Debian/Ubuntu
sudo dnf install fail2ban -y    # CentOS/AlmaLinux

✅ 

5. Use Real-Time Malware Protection

Install tools like ClamAV or Maldet to detect malicious files:

sudo apt install clamav -y

✅ 

6. Secure Web Applications

  • Keep CMS platforms like WordPress up to date
  • Use strong admin passwords
  • Install security plugins and WAF (Web Application Firewall)

✅ 

7. Enable Regular Backups

Backups are your best defense against ransomware. Even if your server is compromised, you can restore your data without paying a ransom.

Options:

  • Use Hosteons’ VPS backup service
  • Use remote backup tools like rclone or rsync

✅ 

8. Implement Principle of Least Privilege

Only give necessary access to users and apps. Avoid running unnecessary services.


✅ 

9. Monitor Your VPS

Set up monitoring tools like:

  • fail2ban logs
  • UFW logs
  • Host-based Intrusion Detection Systems (HIDS) like OSSEC

Hosteons VPS Security Features

All Hosteons VPS plans are built for security and performance:

  • KVM Virtualization for complete isolation
  • 10Gbps Ports for high-speed secure connections
  • Full Root Access to configure your own security stack
  • IPv6 Ready
  • Affordable Plans starting at $2.99/month

👉 Order a VPS today:


Final Thoughts

Ransomware is a growing threat, but with regular updates, strong security practices, and backups, your VPS can stay protected. Don’t wait until it’s too late—secure your VPS now.

How to Secure a VPS Right After Deployment – Checklist for 2025

Deploying a VPS is the first step to building your online presence, hosting applications, or running business-critical services. But if you don’t secure it immediately after deployment, your server could become an easy target for hackers and automated bots.

Here’s a step-by-step security checklist for 2025 to harden your VPS from the start.


✅ 

1. Update Your System

Outdated packages and kernels are the biggest vulnerabilities.

Run these commands right after login:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y   # For Ubuntu/Debian
sudo dnf update -y                      # For CentOS/AlmaLinux

✅ 

2. Create a New User and Disable Root Login

Never use the root account for day-to-day operations.

adduser youruser
usermod -aG sudo youruser

Edit the SSH configuration:

sudo nano /etc/ssh/sshd_config

Change:

PermitRootLogin no

Restart SSH:

systemctl restart ssh

✅ 

3. Set Up SSH Key Authentication

Passwords can be brute-forced. Use SSH keys instead.

Generate keys on your local machine:

ssh-keygen -t rsa -b 4096

Copy your public key to the VPS:

ssh-copy-id youruser@server_ip

Disable password login in /etc/ssh/sshd_config:

PasswordAuthentication no

Restart SSH again.


✅ 

4. Change the Default SSH Port

Bots scan port 22 for vulnerabilities. Change it to a non-standard port (e.g., 2222):

sudo nano /etc/ssh/sshd_config

Set:

Port 2222

Restart SSH:

systemctl restart ssh

✅ 

5. Enable a Firewall

Use UFW for Ubuntu/Debian:

sudo ufw allow 2222/tcp
sudo ufw allow 80/tcp
sudo ufw allow 443/tcp
sudo ufw enable

For CentOS/AlmaLinux (Firewalld):

sudo firewall-cmd --add-service=ssh --permanent
sudo firewall-cmd --add-service=http --permanent
sudo firewall-cmd --add-service=https --permanent
sudo firewall-cmd --reload

✅ 

6. Install Fail2Ban

Protect against brute-force attacks:

sudo apt install fail2ban -y    # Debian/Ubuntu
sudo dnf install fail2ban -y    # CentOS/AlmaLinux

Enable and start Fail2Ban:

sudo systemctl enable fail2ban
sudo systemctl start fail2ban

✅ 

7. Disable Unnecessary Services

Check running services:

systemctl list-unit-files --type=service --state=enabled

Disable what you don’t need:

sudo systemctl disable service_name

✅ 

8. Enable Automatic Security Updates

On Ubuntu/Debian:

sudo apt install unattended-upgrades -y

On CentOS/AlmaLinux:

sudo dnf install dnf-automatic -y
sudo systemctl enable --now dnf-automatic.timer

✅ 

9. Install a Malware Scanner

Use ClamAV for basic malware scanning:

sudo apt install clamav -y

✅ 

10. Backup Regularly

Security is not complete without backups. Use tools like:

  • rsync
  • rclone
  • Cloud backups from your Hosteons VPS panel

Pro Tip:

Hosteons offers an Initial VPS Setup Script that secures your server instantly with best practices:

👉 GitHub Script

👉 Full Guide


Final Thoughts

Securing your VPS should never be an afterthought. With these 10 steps, you can minimize vulnerabilities and keep your server safe from evolving cyber threats in 2025.

🛡️ Ready to get started?

Order a reliable VPS now: Hosteons VPS Plans

Can You Stay Anonymous Online? Hosting with Crypto Explained

Online privacy is becoming more important than ever. Whether you’re a developer, business owner, or individual user, maintaining control over your identity and personal data is critical — especially in a world where surveillance, tracking, and data breaches are commonplace. One of the best ways to boost your privacy is by using cryptocurrency to pay for services like VPS or VDS hosting.

At HostEONS, we make anonymous hosting a reality. Here’s how.


Why Privacy Matters in Hosting

Most hosting providers require extensive personal details and perform strict verification checks, especially when payments are made through traditional gateways like credit cards or PayPal. For privacy-conscious users, that’s a red flag.

Common concerns include:

  • Exposure of personal identity
  • Data sharing with third parties
  • Risk of account suspension based on regional or political factors

How Crypto Payments Help You Stay Anonymous

Cryptocurrency allows you to make payments without linking your name, address, or banking details. When combined with a privacy-focused host like HostEONS, crypto makes near-anonymous hosting possible.

✅ No KYC (Know Your Customer) Checks

We do not require KYC for orders paid via cryptocurrency. You don’t need to submit ID, documents, or undergo verification — just place your order and start using your VPS or VDS.

✅ Wide Range of Crypto Supported

We accept:

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • USDT (TRC20 & ERC20)
  • Litecoin (LTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Dogecoin (DOGE)
  • and many others via our crypto gateways

✅ No Questions Asked

Paying with crypto? We won’t ask why or for whom. You stay in control of your privacy and purpose.


How to Host Anonymously with HostEONS

  1. Visit one of our product pages:
  2. Select your plan and choose “Cryptocurrency” at checkout.
  3. Pay using your preferred crypto wallet.
  4. Get your VPS/VDS provisioned instantly (in most cases) with no identity verification.

Combine Crypto with Secure Practices

Using crypto is only part of the solution. For truly anonymous hosting, follow these best practices:

  • Use a secure, privacy-friendly email address
  • Avoid using personal domains that link to your identity
  • Secure your VPS with firewall rules, SSH keys, and fail2ban
  • Use VPN or Tor when accessing your control panel

Ideal for Developers, Privacy Enthusiasts, and Freedom Seekers

Whether you’re:

  • Running a private blog or forum
  • Deploying a VPN or proxy server
  • Hosting blockchain nodes or crypto projects
  • Or just prefer not to share your data…

HostEONS makes it easy to stay anonymous and in control of your online presence.


Get Started Today

Ditch the paperwork. Protect your privacy. Host on your terms.

🔐 Pay with crypto. No KYC. No questions asked.

Start here → https://hosteons.com

Top 5 Tips to Harden Your Linux VPS Against Attacks in 2025

In 2025, cyberattacks are more sophisticated than ever. Whether you’re hosting a personal project or critical business application, securing your Linux VPS is no longer optional—it’s essential. Thankfully, with just a few steps, you can drastically reduce your risk and keep your VPS locked down against the most common threats.

At Hosteons, we provide high-performance KVM VPS with root access, but security is a shared responsibility. Here’s how you can harden your VPS in minutes:


1. Use SSH Keys Instead of Passwords

Disable password login and use SSH key authentication for more secure, automated, and brute-force-resistant logins.

Steps:

  • Generate a key pair using ssh-keygen
  • Upload your public key to your VPS: ~/.ssh/authorized_keys
  • Disable password auth in /etc/ssh/sshd_config

👉 Read: Why You Should Use SSH Keys Instead of Passwords


2. Set Up a Firewall (UFW/iptables)

Block unnecessary ports to reduce your attack surface. Only open what’s required (e.g., 22 for SSH, 80/443 for web).

Example with UFW:

sudo ufw default deny incoming
sudo ufw allow 22
sudo ufw allow 80
sudo ufw allow 443
sudo ufw enable

3. Install and Configure Fail2Ban

Prevent brute-force attacks by banning IPs with too many failed login attempts.

Install Fail2Ban:

sudo apt install fail2ban

Create a jail for SSH and monitor logs like /var/log/auth.log or /var/log/secure.

👉 Full Fail2Ban Guide


4. Keep the System and Software Updated

Always run the latest security patches. Use tools like unattended-upgrades for automated updates.

Commands:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
sudo yum update

Outdated software is one of the most exploited vulnerabilities.


5. Monitor Login Attempts and File Changes

Install tools to track unauthorized access and suspicious activity.

  • Use auditd to track system events
  • Use logwatch or logcheck to scan logs for anomalies
  • Monitor /var/log/auth.log for failed logins

👉 Read: How to Monitor Login Attempts and File Changes on Your VPS


Bonus: Disable Root Login

Prevent direct root access by using a non-root sudo user instead.

In /etc/ssh/sshd_config:

PermitRootLogin no

Final Thoughts

Hardened servers are happy servers! With these 5 simple steps, you’ll block the majority of attacks targeting Linux VPS.

At Hosteons, we give you the control, performance, and reliability — now it’s your turn to secure it.

🔐 Ready to deploy a secure VPS?

👉 Explore Our KVM VPS

👉 Premium Ryzen VPS