If the addresses were encrypted I could still change them so I don't see how encryption would help prevent me from doing so if I had the retarded intention to do so, unless I'm missing something?
but what if a hacker gains access and changes the address how do protect against it?
If a hacker gains access can replace the entire website with a fake one and you can do nothing to stop it.
Just use a 64 character password for the ftp and do not login in a insecure pc.