What Malware means
On websites, malware can redirect visitors to scams, inject spam links or steal checkout data. Search engines and browsers may flag an infected site, cutting traffic overnight. Updates, a WAF, scanning and clean backups keep it out and speed recovery.
Why it matters for your website
Malware on your site can steal visitor data, send people to scam pages or use your server to attack others. Browsers and Google may show warnings that scare off visitors and cut your traffic. Cleanup can be costly and time-consuming, especially without clean backups.
Example
A florist's website starts redirecting mobile visitors to a fake prize page. The owner learns that an outdated plugin let attackers inject malicious code.
Tips
- Keep your CMS, themes and plugins updated and remove ones you don't use.
- Set up Google Search Console so you get alerts about security issues on your site.
- Keep regular off-site backups so you can restore a clean version quickly.
Common mistakes
- Deleting the visible bad code without finding and closing the hole that let it in.
- Downloading 'free' premium themes or plugins from untrusted sites.
Questions about Malware
What is Malware?
Malicious software designed to damage, spy on or take control of computers, websites or networks.
How do I know if my website has malware?
Signs include strange redirects, unknown admin users, spam pages in Google, or browser warnings. Search Console's Security Issues report and a reputable scanner can confirm it.
How do I get a Google malware warning removed?
Clean the site completely and fix the cause, then request a review in Google Search Console. Google removes the warning once it confirms the site is clean.
