Ya phpbb is free so if your not going to buy a vb licence I'd go with phpbb. Be extra safe by renaming admin file and password protecting it. As everyone said use only fully released mods and keep them current.

Sounds obvious but make sure you scan your own computer regularly too and keep it updated. No point having the most secure forum in the world if you key-logged.
Mr Happy Reviewed by Mr Happy on . Protecting phpBB3 forum from hackers..advices? I have yet to run a vBulletin 3.8.x forum and im heariing of forums being defaced.. and im gettting worried because my knowledge of php or programming is extremely limited What steps to follow? strong password? Limit the amount of mods? A nulled vbulletin is untrustworthy ? Is an legit one more hacker proof? Rating: 5