Malware
Malicious software designed to harm, spy on or take control of a computer or website, such as viruses, ransomware or code that hackers hide in a website.
Malware, short for malicious software, is any program or code written to cause harm. On computers, it includes viruses, spyware and ransomware that locks your files until you pay. On websites, it’s often code hidden in the site’s files or database that redirects visitors, shows spam, steals form or payment data, or uses your server to attack others.
How it gets in
- Outdated software. Old plugins, themes or WordPress versions with known security holes.
- Stolen passwords, often from phishing or reused passwords.
- Pirated plugins and themes, which often come with malware built in.
- Malicious attachments and downloads on staff computers.
Why it matters to a small business
Website malware can get your site flagged by Google, with red warning pages that scare off visitors. It can send spam from your server, hurting your email reputation, and it can steal customers’ information. On office computers, ransomware can stop the business entirely.
Warning signs on a website
- Google or your browser warns that the site is harmful or hacked.
- Visitors are redirected to other sites, sometimes only on phones.
- Pages appear that you didn’t create.
- Unknown administrator accounts.
- Your host suspends the site or warns about suspicious activity.
Prevention: keep everything updated, use two-factor authentication, keep daily backups, and use uptime monitoring and security alerts.
Example
A boutique’s customers report being sent to a gambling site when they visit from Google on their phones. A scan finds malware added through an outdated slider plugin. The site is cleaned, the plugin removed, passwords changed, and Google is asked to review the site.
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