WordPress is a popular platform for websites. It offers many features. One such feature is comments. But, WordPress stores the IP addresses of commenters. Some site owners may not want this. Let’s learn how to stop storing IP addresses in WordPress comments.

Why Stop Storing IP Addresses?

Storing IP addresses can be a privacy concern. People care about their privacy. They do not want their IP address stored. Also, some laws require protecting user data. Not storing IP addresses can help with this.

Credit: www.wpbeginner.com

Steps to Stop Storing IP Addresses

We will go through simple steps. Follow these to stop storing IP addresses. You do not need to be a tech expert. These steps are easy to follow.

Step 1: Backup Your Website

Before making changes, backup your website. This will protect your data. If something goes wrong, you can restore it.

Step 2: Use A Child Theme

It is good to use a child theme. This keeps your main theme safe. Changes will not affect the main theme. If you do not have a child theme, create one.

Step 3: Edit The Functions.php File

Now, we need to edit the functions.php file. This file controls many parts of your site. Follow these steps:

1. Go to your WordPress dashboard.
2. Click on “Appearance”.
3. Click on “Theme Editor”.
4. Find and click on “functions.php”.

Add this code to the end of the functions.php file:

            function wpb_remove_commentsip( $comment_author_ip ) {
                return '';
            }
            add_filter( 'pre_comment_user_ip', 'wpb_remove_commentsip' );
        

This code will remove the IP address. Save the file after adding the code.

Step 4: Test Your Site

Now, test your site. Leave a comment on your post. Check if the IP address is stored. If not, you did it right!

Credit: www.8theme.com

Using a Plugin

You can also use a plugin. Plugins make changes easier. Here are steps to use a plugin:

Step 1: Install The Plugin

There are many plugins for this. One such plugin is “Remove Comment IP”. Follow these steps:

1. Go to your WordPress dashboard.
2. Click on “Plugins”.
3. Click on “Add New”.
4. Search for “Remove Comment IP”.
5. Click “Install Now”.
6. Click “Activate”.

Step 2: Configure The Plugin

Some plugins need configuration. Check the settings of the plugin. Make sure it is set to remove IP addresses.

Step 3: Test The Plugin

Leave a comment on your post. Check if the IP address is stored. If not, the plugin works!

Benefits of Not Storing IP Addresses

There are many benefits:

• Better privacy for users.
• Compliance with privacy laws.
• Less data to manage.
• More trust from users.

Frequently Asked Questions

How To Stop Storing Ip Addresses In WordPress Comments?

You can use the “Remove Comment IP” plugin. It stops storing IP addresses.

Why Should I Stop Storing Ip Addresses?

Privacy concerns. Storing IP addresses can lead to potential data breaches.

Is It Legal To Store Ip Addresses In Comments?

Depends on your country’s laws. Check local regulations for data storage.

Can I Still Get Useful Data Without Ip Addresses?

Yes. You can use other data like email and username.

Conclusion

Stopping the storage of IP addresses is simple. You can do it by editing code or using a plugin. Both methods are easy. This helps protect user privacy. It also helps with legal compliance. Follow these steps and keep your site secure.