TL;DR
Yes, you can create a website on WordPress anonymously, but it requires careful setup and ongoing maintenance to protect your identity. It’s not foolproof, so understand the risks involved.
How to Create an Anonymous WordPress Website
- Choose an Anonymous Domain Registrar:
- Regular domain registrars require personal information. Use a registrar that accepts cryptocurrency and doesn’t require email verification or ID. Examples include Namecheap (with privacy protection) or Porkbun.
- Pay with cryptocurrency like Bitcoin for added anonymity.
- Use a Privacy-Focused Hosting Provider:
- Avoid hosting providers that require personal details. Look for those accepting crypto payments and offering strong privacy policies.
- Consider using a Virtual Private Server (VPS) instead of shared hosting, as it gives you more control over your data. DigitalOcean, Vultr, or Linode are options.
- Set up WordPress with a Fake/Neutral Name:
- When installing WordPress, use a generic name and email address that isn’t linked to you.
- Avoid using your real name or any personally identifiable information in the ‘Site Title’, ‘Admin Username’, or ‘Admin Email’.
- Use a Strong VPN:
- Always use a reputable Virtual Private Network (VPN) when accessing and managing your website. This hides your IP address.
- Choose a no-logs VPN provider to ensure they don’t store your activity data.
- Use Tor Browser for Initial Setup:
- For maximum anonymity during the initial setup (domain registration, hosting account creation), use the Tor browser. This routes your traffic through multiple servers, making it very difficult to trace.
- Email Considerations:
- Avoid using personal email addresses. Use a ProtonMail or Tutanota account (encrypted email providers).
- Be careful about linking your anonymous WordPress site to any existing accounts you own.
- Disable Comments and User Registration:
- To minimise data collection, disable comments on your posts.
- Prevent user registration unless absolutely necessary.
- Use a Privacy Plugin:
- Install a WordPress privacy plugin like WP Privacy Policy or Complianz to help manage cookies and data collection.
- Secure Your Website (HTTPS):
- Ensure your website uses HTTPS (SSL certificate). Most hosting providers offer free SSL certificates through Let’s Encrypt.
- Regularly Monitor and Update:
- Keep WordPress, themes, and plugins updated to patch security vulnerabilities.
- Monitor your website for any suspicious activity.
Important Considerations
Risks: Anonymity is never guaranteed. Determined parties can still potentially trace your activities.
Legal Implications: Ensure your website’s content complies with all applicable laws and regulations, even if you are anonymous.
Payment Methods: Cryptocurrency payments offer more anonymity than traditional methods but aren’t completely untraceable.