How to grant secure access to a PrestaShop service provider
The management of a PrestaShop online store may at times require the intervention of external service providers for various tasks such as development, maintenance or optimization. However, providing direct access to your site can entail security risks if certain precautions are not taken. Here are the steps and tips for providing secure access to a service provider on PrestaShop, without compromising your data.
1. Identify the service provider's exact needs
Before granting access to your site, discuss with the service provider exactly what needs to be done. This will enable you to determine the rights and permissions required. For design or code modifications, FTP access may be required; for content or product management, access to the PrestaShop back-office will suffice.
2. Create a new user with limited rights
On PrestaShop, you can create several user accounts with specific roles. To do this :
- Go to Advanced Settings > Team in the back office.
- Click on Add an employee to create a new user.
- Assign them a limited role that corresponds to the tasks they will have to perform. You can use profiles such as “Editor” or “Developer” and adjust the permissions.
Limiting rights allows you to control what the service provider can see and modify. For example, for SEO tasks, the service provider will not need access to customer information or financial parameters.
3. Use dual authentication
Double authentication (2FA) is an effective way of adding a layer of security to your site. PrestaShop offers security modules that enable 2FA. Once activated, even if a password is compromised, access will require additional validation via a code sent to the user's phone or email.
4. Protect FTP access
If your service provider needs FTP access to edit files directly on the server :
- Create a dedicated FTP account with restricted access to only the directories you need.
- Deactivate this account as soon as the service provider no longer needs access to it.
- Use secure connections (SFTP) to prevent credentials being intercepted.
5. Using a shared access module
OpArt, a developer who has specialized in PrestaShop for many years, offers an all-in-one solution that lets you easily share access to your PrestaShop management space while ensuring security by revoking access automatically after a set period or manually.
This solution is the most practical to date, and addresses a real security problem with all those employee accounts that remain open for years after the service provider's intervention.
6. Save the site regularly
Before granting access to a service provider, make a complete backup of your site and database. In the event of a problem, you'll be able to restore the data easily. You should also schedule regular backups during the period of the service provider's intervention, to minimize the risk of data loss.
7. Monitor activities via event logs
Most content management systems, including PrestaShop, log user activity. Monitor these logs for any suspicious activity while the provider has access to your site. This enables you to act quickly in the event of a problem or attempt at unauthorized access.
8. Disable access after mission completion
Once the service provider has completed its work, immediately deactivate the user account or FTP access provided. This will reduce the risk of future unauthorized access.
In the end
Giving secure access to a PrestaShop service provider is essential to protect your data while enabling efficient collaboration. By limiting access rights, using dual authentication and tracking activities, you can secure your site while benefiting from the expertise of professionals. Never neglect these precautions, as your site's security is vital to maintaining your customers' trust and safeguarding your sensitive data.
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