Detecting & Removing Malware from Your WordPress Site: The Definitive Guide

WordPress has emerged as the content management system (CMS) of choice for countless entrepreneurs in today’s day and age, where your online presence is crucial for the success of your business. With its flexibility, user-friendly interface, and extensive plugin ecosystem, WordPress offers an exceptional platform for building and managing websites. However, the rise in cyber threats poses significant risks to WordPress sites, especially malware attacks that can compromise the security and integrity of your online eCommerce business.

This all-in-one guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to detect and eliminate malware, safeguard your website, and protect your valuable WordPress data. Furthermore, if you suspect that your site is suffering from malware, you can hire a Codeable expert to handle it for you adeptly. 

Don’t let malware undermine your online presence and business reputation. Let’s dive into this definitive guide so you can take control of your WordPress site’s security!

Introduction to malware and its effects on your WordPress site

Your WordPress site is not immune to cybersecurity threats. Malware, short for malicious software, can infiltrate your website, exploiting its vulnerabilities and compromising its functionality, performance, and even the trust of your online customers. 

There were 5.5 billion malware attacks in 2022 alone, with 560,000 new malware being detected every day.

As a WordPress business owner, you should proactively detect and remove malware from your WordPress site to protect it and maintain a secure online presence.

The impact of malware on your WordPress site

Malware poses a serious threat to your website, causing a range of detrimental effects. Familiarizing yourself with its adverse consequences and understanding the imperative to eradicate it and safeguard your website is crucial. 

Let’s shed light on some of the most prevalent negative impacts of malware:

• Security breaches

Malware can exploit vulnerabilities in your site’s code, themes, or plugins, allowing unauthorized access to your website. Attackers can steal your sensitive data, inject malicious code, deface your site, or even take control of it entirely.

• Website performance issues

Malware often consumes server resources, causing your site to slow down or crash frequently. This can result in a poor user experience, increased bounce rates, and loss of traffic and potential customers.

• SEO penalties

Some malware infects your site with spammy links or redirects, leading to search engine penalties. Your site’s rankings can drop significantly, and in some cases, it may even get blacklisted by search engines, making it difficult for users to find your site.

• Loss of data

Certain types of malware can encrypt your files or databases, making them inaccessible. For example, ransomware encrypts files using a strong encryption algorithm, making them unusable without the decryption key. The attackers then demand a ransom payment in exchange for restoring access to the data or removing the encryption, which isn’t always guaranteed. If you don’t have proper backups and malware protection, this can lead to permanent data loss.

• Reputation damage and less revenue

A compromised website can damage your reputation and brand image. If your site suffers from malicious activities, your customers may associate your brand with security risks and avoid interacting with your site or doing business with you. For instance, if your WooCommerce store is compromised and suffering from defacement or unusual URL redirects, among a number of other signs, your customers may lose trust in making transactions, resulting in lost sales and a decreased conversion rate.

The different types of malware that can infect your WordPress site

Unfortunately, there are hundreds, maybe thousands, of malware crawling around the internet. Nevertheless, here are some common types of malware that you need to shield your site against:

• Viruses 

These malicious programs can replicate and spread by attaching themselves to clean files or infecting vulnerable areas of your site.

• Worms 

Worms are self-replicating malware that can exploit security vulnerabilities to spread across networks and infect multiple websites.

• Trojans 

Trojans disguise themselves as legitimate software, tricking you or your website visitors into installing them. Once installed, they can perform various malicious activities covertly.

• Ransomware 

This type of malware encrypts your website’s files and demands a ransom in exchange for their release, causing significant disruption to your operations.

• Spyware 

Spyware silently collects information about your site’s visitors, such as login credentials and personal data, and sends it to unauthorized third parties.

• Adware and malvertising

Adware displays intrusive advertisements on your website, often generating revenue for the attacker while negatively impacting your WordPress website’s user experience.

• Keyloggers 

Keyloggers record keystrokes made by the customers on your website, allowing attackers to gather their sensitive information such as login credentials, credit card details, or other personal data.

• Rootkits 

Rootkits are stealthy malware that gain unauthorized access to your website’s core system files and conceal their presence, making them difficult to detect and remove.

• Backdoors 

Backdoors provide unauthorized access to your website, allowing attackers to bypass security measures and control your site remotely. They can be used for various malicious activities, such as uploading additional malware or stealing data.

• Phishing 

While not strictly malware, phishing attempts can trick users into revealing sensitive information by impersonating legitimate entities through deceptive emails, forms, or login pages.

• Clickjacking 

Also known as UI redress attack, clickjacking is a malicious technique where cybercriminals deceive your website users into unknowingly clicking on elements on your web page that they have hijacked. This tricks your website visitors into performing unintended actions, leading to unauthorized transactions or the execution of malicious actions on behalf of the cyberattacker. 

• Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks

In MitM attacks, hackers intercept and alter communication between your website and your customers, potentially stealing sensitive data exchanged during transactions or login processes.

• Malicious redirects 

Malicious redirects occur when your visitors are redirected to unauthorized websites, often leading to phishing or malware-infested pages.

• Bots

Bots, in and of themselves, are not inherently malware. However, bots can be used as a component of malware. They can be harnessed to launch Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, where multiple infected devices flood a target system or network with overwhelming traffic, rendering it unavailable to your legitimate visitors. 

Understanding these various cyber threats is essential for implementing effective security measures. By proactively protecting your website, you can mitigate the risk of data breaches, operational disruptions, and unauthorized access, ensuring a safer online environment for your customers.

Common signs of malware on your WordPress site

If your website is slow, that might be an indicator that malware is present on your site. However, better indicators are receiving Google warning notifications or obvious defacement. 

“Aside from obvious defacement, I’d be immediately concerned if my site started generating unwanted redirects or if you can’t log in with known administrator credentials.” – Avery White, WordPress Codeable expert

Here’s a rough checklist to determine if your online business has been attacked by malware or hackers:

• Your website is defaced in some way. This means content appears on your site that you didn’t create. This can come in the shape of unwanted redirects, links, ads, or politically motivated messages.
• A sudden drop in site traffic. This could be because Google is notifying potential users that the website they are trying to visit contains malware (note that you may also see warnings in your Google Search Console account).
• You’re locked out even though you know you’re using the correct credentials.
• A sudden spike in system resource consumption or the site becomes dramatically slow or unresponsive. This could indicate your site is being used by attackers to do something else, like participate in a DDoS attack or mine cryptocurrency.
• Search results contain wildly irrelevant data (Search Result Hijacking).
• Unusual file names or directories appear.
• Unusual cron jobs or scheduled tasks appear.

Codeable WordPress developers can easily spot these indicators, and help you eradicate them from your website. 

Scanning and detecting malware on your WordPress site

WordPress has quite a variety of anti-malware tools to employ at your discretion. Here are a few that we’ll go into more detail on in a bit:

Front-end (plugin) solutions

In the WordPress plugin repository, you can find both premium and free plugins to detect any malware on your WordPress website and remove it, keeping your online business secure. 

WordPress malware removal plugins like WordFence, Sucuri, MalCare, SecuPress, WPScan – WordPress Security Scanner, JetPack, and iThemes Security can simplify the process for you and make it as easy as just on click on the ‘Scan’ button. They are considered among the best WordPress malware removal plugins.

Back-end (server/hosting) solutions

WordPress hosting providers with robust back-end solutions can help prevent malware infections by detecting and blocking malicious activities, scanning for malware, and providing secure backup and restoration options.

Moreover, anti-malware software like Immunify360, BitNinja, Sucuri, SiteLock, and CodeGuard can provide your website with the necessary security. They offer server-level security measures such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems, regular updates and patching of server software, secure file permissions and access controls, built-in malware scanning and removal tools, secure backup solutions, Web Application Firewalls (WAF), server monitoring, and threat detection.

“I love WordFence. Even the free version has some excellent scan options, and their Web-Application Firewall is very well informed from their massive threat database. Also, I like Really Simple SSL because it keeps the necessary backend changes enforced to avoid all-too-common mixed-content SSL errors. On the backend side, I’ve had an uneventful (a good thing!) experience with Immunify360 and would happily recommend it.” –Avery White, WordPress Codeable expert

Ideally, you will want to have both a front-end and a back-end security solution for added security layers. A seasoned WordPress developer can also implement security measures tailored to your website.

Choosing the right malware scanner for your WordPress site

Take the following aspects into your consideration when choosing the malware scanners that will best protect the front-end and back-end of your website:

• Assess your needs

Before choosing a malware scanner for your WordPress site, it’s important to understand your specific requirements. Consider factors such as your budget, the size and complexity of your site, the frequency of malware scans you need, and the level of support required.

• Research available options

There are several reliable malware scanners available for WordPress sites. Conduct thorough research to find options that fit your needs. Some popular choices include Sucuri, Wordfence, MalCare, and SiteLock, as mentioned above. Explore their features, pricing plans, customer reviews, and support services to make an informed decision.

• Evaluate key features

Look for features that are essential for effective malware scanning, such as automatic scanning scheduling, real-time monitoring, comprehensive malware database, and reliable malware detection algorithms. Additionally, consider if the scanner provides additional security features like firewall protection and vulnerability scanning.

• Consider ease of use

Choose a malware scanner that is user-friendly and provides clear instructions on how to scan and remove malware. A well-designed interface and intuitive user experience can save you time and effort.

• Support and updates

Ensure that the malware scanner you choose has a responsive support team and receives regular updates. Timely updates help the scanner stay effective against new malware threats, and good customer support can assist you in case you encounter any issues.

How to remove malware on your WordPress website

Option 1: Get an expert to do it

Opting for professional assistance is a highly recommended solution when it comes to something as serious as handling malware because they have the training and experience necessary to identify, isolate, and eliminate a wide variety of cyber threats. Moreover, they can safely back up your data, save time and effort, and even offer support after malware removal in case anything arises.

This is where Codeable, a leading WordPress freelancer platform, comes in. At Codeable, we have a directory of 700+ expert WordPress developers who are well-versed in the art and science of malware removal. This will guarantee that they’ll adeptly handle all your WordPress tasks and efficiently enhance your site’s overall security.

Just follow these simple steps to get started with a Codeable expert:

1. Visit our website and click on the “Start A Project” button”.

2. You’ll be prompted to create an account if you don’t have one. Otherwise, just opt for logging in.

3. Provide details about your WordPress website and the malware issue you’re facing. Be as specific as possible about the symptoms you’re experiencing and any error messages you’ve encountered.
4. Choose the category that best matches your needs. In this case, it would likely be “WordPress Security“.
5. Once you post your project, our qualified experts will review your requirements. You’ll be matched with 1-5 experts who are a good match for your project, and you’ll get a single estimate that is an average of the developers’ individual quotes. This ensures you are paying for quality and not the cheapest quote. 
6. Take your time to review the experts’ profiles, including their ratings, reviews, and portfolios. You’ll easily see that all of them are vetted for their world-class skills. You can engage in a conversation with these developers to further discuss the project details, timeline, and any additional requirements you may have.
7. If you’re satisfied with the discussions and feel confident in choosing an expert based on their capabilities, hire them for the project. You’ll pay upfront, though payments are held in escrow. 
8. Collaborate closely with the hired expert to provide them with the necessary access to your WordPress website. The expert will ensure you have appropriate backups in place before any changes are made, scan for malware, remove infected files, and implement security measures to protect your website.
9. Once the expert has completed the malware removal process, thoroughly test your website to ensure the issue has been resolved.

Going with this method will guarantee you a malware-free and secure site in no time.

Option 2: Remove malware manually without a plugin

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to identify and remove malware from your WordPress site yourself without using a plugin:

Step 1: Back up your website

Before you start, it’s essential to create a backup of your website files and database. This allows you to restore your site if anything goes wrong during the malware removal process. You can back up your website using a backup plugin manually or by hiring a Codeable WordPress expert.

Step 2: Identify the infection

Look for signs of malware infection, such as unexpected redirects, unusual pop-ups, or changes in your site’s appearance or functionality. You can also use website scanners like SucuriSiteCheck or Norton Safe Web to identify potential malware. All you have to do is enter your WordPress website’s URL.

Step 3: Remove infected files 

Once you have detected the malware-ridden piece of your website, you can manually delete the infected files. After that, replace the deleted files with clean copies from a trusted source or restore them from a previous one you had before the malware attack backup.

Step 4: Update WordPress core, themes, and plugins

Outdated software is a common vulnerability that hackers exploit. Make sure you’re running the latest versions of WordPress, WooCommerce, your theme, and your plugins. Remove any unused, outdated, or deprecated themes and plugins as well.

Step 5: Harden your site’s security

After removing malware, it’s crucial to reinforce your WordPress site’s security to prevent future infections. Consider implementing the following security practices:

• Use strong and unique passwords for all user accounts.
• Limit the number of login attempts with a plugin like Login LockDown.
• Enable two-factor authentication for user logins.
• Regularly update themes, plugins, and WordPress core.
• Remove any unnecessary themes and plugins.
• Use a firewall to block suspicious traffic.
• Disable file editing via the WordPress dashboard.
• Monitor your site for file changes using a plugin like Sucuri or Wordfence.

“I think we still have it in our heads that a password length of 8 characters is sufficient, and that might have been true a decade ago, but computers (and even phones) are getting to the point that those once-suggestions to use upper and lowercase letters, numbers, special symbols is now mandatory.

Additionally, I think people are too afraid of ‘what if it breaks my site’ and not nearly afraid enough of ‘what if I get hacked?’ Updating, testing, and reverting (and then hopefully fixing) will always take less time than fixing a hacked site.” –Avery White, WordPress Codeable expert

Step 6: Monitor regularly

Keep a watchful eye on your website for any signs of unusual activity or reinfection. Regularly update and scan your site for malware to maintain its security.

Remember, if you’re unsure about any step or need assistance, it’s always a good idea to consult a WordPress professional or a security expert with experience in handling WordPress malware removal.

Option 3: Use a WordPress security plugin to detect and remove malware

WordPress malware removal plugins offer comprehensive protection and malware removal features. Here is how to detect and remove malware from your website using a plugin:

1. Install, activate, and configure your anti-malware plugin. For this tutorial, we are using WordFence. Follow the provided setup wizard or configuration guide. Set up any required parameters, such as scanning frequency, email notifications, and automated removal options.

2. From your dashboard, go to WordFence from the menu on the side and click on ‘Scan’ to initiate a malware scan of your WordPress site. Depending on the plugin, you may have options for on-demand or scheduled scans. 

3. Now, click on the ‘Start new scan’ button and allow the plugin to analyze your site for malware and vulnerabilities thoroughly.

4. If WordFence detects malware, it will alert you. All you have to do now is remove the malware by clicking on the ‘Delete file’ button.

There you have it. That’s how easy it is to use a WordPress anti-malware plugin.

Securing your WordPress site with a web application firewall

A web application firewall (WAF) is an essential tool for protecting your site against various security threats. By implementing a WAF, you can add an extra layer of defense that helps mitigate risks and keeps your website secure. In this section, we will explore the importance of securing your website with a web application firewall and provide some best practices for its implementation.

Why use a web application firewall?

WordPress is one of the most popular content management systems, making it an attractive target for hackers and malicious actors. Cyberattacks, such as SQL injections, cross-site scripting (XSS), and distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, can compromise the security and functionality of your website, leading to data breaches, defacement, or loss of revenue.

A web application firewall acts as a shield between your website and potential threats by monitoring, filtering, and blocking suspicious traffic. It analyzes incoming requests and applies predefined rules to identify and stop malicious activities before they reach your WordPress site. With a WAF in place, you can prevent common vulnerabilities and protect your site from emerging threats.

Implementing a web application firewall for WordPress

By implementing a WAF, you can significantly reduce the risk of common cyberattacks and protect your valuable data and online reputation. Here is an overview of how to implement WAF on our WordPress website:

1. Choose a Reliable WAF Solution

Selecting the right web application firewall is crucial. Look for a reputable and feature-rich WAF solution that specifically caters to WordPress security. Consider factors such as ease of use, regular updates, customer support, and compatibility with your hosting environment.

2. Install and configure your WAF plugin 

Once you’ve chosen a WAF solution, install the corresponding plugin provided by the vendor. This plugin integrates the WAF into your site and allows you to configure its settings. Take time to understand the available options and adjust them to match your security requirements.

3. Enable basic WAF protections 

Activate the core protection features offered by the WAF. These typically include protection against common attacks like SQL injections, XSS, and brute-force attempts. Ensure that these protections are turned on and set to the appropriate security levels.

4. Customize WAF rules

Depending on your site’s unique characteristics and functionalities, you may need to customize the WAF rules. Review the predefined rules and add any specific rules that align with your site’s requirements. Regularly update and fine-tune these rules to address evolving security threats.

5. Monitor and analyze WAF logs 

Regularly monitor the logs generated by the WAF to gain insights into potential threats and attack patterns. Analyzing these logs can help you identify and respond to security incidents effectively. Consider integrating your WAF logs with a security information and event management (SIEM) system for centralized monitoring and analysis.

6. Stay up-to-date 

Keep your WAF plugin and WordPress installation up-to-date with the latest security patches and updates. WAF vendors continuously release updates to address emerging threats and vulnerabilities. Regularly check for updates and apply them promptly to ensure optimal security.

Remember to choose a reliable WAF solution, configure it properly, customize the rules, and stay vigilant by monitoring logs and keeping your system up-to-date. With these practices in place, you can enhance the security posture of your WordPress site and provide a safe browsing experience for your users. Additionally, hire a WordPress security expert to ensure your WAF is implemented properly.

Protect your WordPress website from malware with Codeable

The prevalence of cyber threats continues to grow, making it crucial for you as an online business owner to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to safeguard your online presence, brand, and reputation. 

Throughout this article, we have explored various effective strategies and best practices to protect your WordPress website from malware. By implementing these measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of malicious attacks and ensure the safety and integrity of your site. You’ll ensure the trust of your customers, consequently leading to an increase in profit and conversion rate. 

If you’re finding it daunting or complex to tackle this essential task, no need to worry! Our Codeable WordPress experts are here to help you with whatever issues you might be facing with you’re website. Just hire one of our WordPress developers to rid your site of malware and build a protective shield for it against any cyber-attacks. Submit your WordPress task today!