How to Hide Author Name in WordPress?

Author names play a significant role in WordPress, providing a sense of credibility and personal connection to the content.

However, there are scenarios where hiding author names becomes essential. Whether you’re an anonymous blogger or running a collaborative website, there are valid reasons to conceal author identities.

In this blog post, we will explore three methods to hide author names in WordPress and discuss alternative options for achieving anonymity and privacy.

3 Methods to Hide Author Name in WordPress

1. Using CSS

You can easily hide the author’s name in WordPress with simple CSS code. It is an easy and effective way to hide the author’s name from posts and pages.

Follow the steps given below to hide the author’s name:

1. Open WordPress Dashboard
2. Click on Appearance > Customize
3. Then click on Additional CSS and paste this CSS code ” .author{display: none:} “
4. It will hide the author’s name from your posts.

2. Using Code Snippet

This is also a simple method for disabling the author’s name on your WordPress posts.

Follow these steps:

1. First, go to Plugins and install a new plugin called “WP Code”
2. After installation, in the WordPress Dashboard click on Code Snippets > Add Snippet
3. Then click on “Add Your Custom Code”
4. Select the code type as PHP Code and add the following code

function hide_author_name() {
    if (is_singular()) {
        global $post;
        $post->post_author = 1; // Replace '1' with the desired author ID
    }
}
add_action('template_redirect', 'hide_author_name');

Save and Activate your snippet.

Note: Replace the number ‘1’ in the code with the desired author ID you want to use for the posts. By default, ‘1’ represents the admin user.

3. Editing the “Function.php”

This method is a little bit complicated as compared to the above 2 methods. It involves editing the theme “function.php” file.

Follow the steps given below:

1. Log in to your WordPress admin dashboard.
2. Go to the “Appearance” section and click on “Editor” (or “Theme Editor” in some versions).
3. On the right-hand side, you will see a list of files related to your active theme. Look for the “functions.php” file and click on it to open it for editing. Note: It’s always a good practice to create a backup of the file before making any changes.
4. Scroll down to the end of the file or to a suitable location where you can add code snippets.
5. Add the following code snippet to the “functions.php” file:

function hide_author_name() {
    if (is_singular()) {
        global $post;
        $post->post_author = 1; // Replace '1' with the desired author ID
    }
}
add_action('template_redirect', 'hide_author_name');

6. Replace the number ‘1’ in the code with the desired author ID you want to use for the posts. By default, ‘1’ represents the admin user.
7. Click the “Update File” button to save the changes.

After following these steps, the author’s name will be hidden on all singular pages, including single posts and pages. The author name will not be displayed, and instead, the author ID you specified will be used.

Alternative Options

Before implementing any changes, it’s important to consider the potential impact on user experience and website credibility. Anonymity and privacy can be achieved through alternative options:

1. Using pseudonyms: Rather than completely hiding author names, consider using pseudonyms or pen names. This allows for a personal touch while maintaining privacy.
2. Creating multiple user accounts: In the case of collaborative websites, creating separate user accounts for each contributor can provide the desired anonymity without compromising transparency.

Conclusion

Hiding author names in WordPress can be a helpful approach for anonymous bloggers or collaborative websites. Whether through editing the “functions.php” file or using plugins, you have multiple methods at your disposal.

However, it’s important to consider the impact on user experience and website credibility before making any changes. Additionally, exploring alternative options such as pseudonyms or multiple user accounts can provide the desired anonymity and privacy.

Remember to take necessary precautions, such as backing up files, and always keep your website’s overall objectives in mind. Embrace customization and experimentation to create a WordPress setup that aligns with your goals.