WordPress is one of the most popular platforms for creating websites, making it a prime target for hackers. A WordPress hack can lead to stolen data, spam content, or compromised user information. Identifying the signs of a hack early can minimize damage, protect your data, and help restore your site quickly. In this guide, we’ll share some tips to help you recognize when your site may have been hacked, and what you can do to fix hacked WordPress website.
Signs of a WordPress Hack
Sometimes website hacks can go unnoticed, leading to extensive damage over time. This means that you need to proactively examine your site to uncover any signs of a WordPress hack. Here are some helpful tips:
Unusual Drop in Site Performance
If your site’s loading speed is suddenly much slower without any changes on your end, it could be a sign of a hack. Malicious code or unwanted scripts can strain server resources, leading to decreased performance. Tools like Google PageSpeed Insights or GTmetrix can help measure performance drops.
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Redirects to Suspicious Websites
One of the most obvious signs of a hack is when visitors (or even admins) are redirected to unrelated, often malicious, websites. This can happen if a hacker has inserted code into your site to generate ad revenue, spread malware, or engage in phishing. Regularly check your site and, if possible, use different devices and networks to see if redirects are happening.
Unexpected Pop-ups or Ads
If you notice unexpected pop-ups or advertisements on your website—especially ones that you didn’t place—this is a clear red flag. Hackers often insert adware to generate income, which can tarnish your site’s reputation.
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Inability to Log In to Your WordPress Admin Panel
When hackers gain access to your WordPress account, they may change your login credentials to lock you out. If you suddenly cannot log in to your dashboard and are confident your credentials are correct, your site may be compromised. Another sign is receiving multiple password reset emails that you did not request.
New or Suspicious User Accounts
New administrator-level accounts appearing in your WordPress user list are a sign that your site might have been hacked. Hackers often create accounts with admin privileges to maintain access. Regularly review your site’s user list and immediately delete any suspicious accounts.
Unfamiliar Plugins or Themes
Unrecognized plugins or themes appearing on your WordPress site can be a sign of a hack. Hackers sometimes install malicious plugins or themes to embed malicious code. Go through your plugins and themes regularly to ensure you only have legitimate installations.
Defacement or Unauthorized Content Changes
Hackers may make visible changes to your site, including altering text, and images, or replacing your homepage with a message. This type of hack is often obvious and damaging to your brand’s reputation. If you see unauthorized content, it’s time to investigate.
Strange Files in Your WordPress Directory
Hackers often leave malicious files in WordPress directories, especially in folders like wp-content or wp-includes. There are numerous WordPress security plugins that can help you scan for unfamiliar files or scripts. Also, review files using FTP/SFTP or cPanel and compare them with a clean WordPress installation.
High Server or Database Resource Usage
A hacked site can cause a significant increase in server usage. Check your server or database logs to identify unexpected spikes. This often results from hackers running scripts or adding malicious content that consumes bandwidth and server resources.
Unusual Google Search Results
If Google search results show strange titles, descriptions, or links associated with your site (like “Buy Now” or “Click Here”), it’s likely your site has been hacked. This is known as SEO Spam and can harm your site’s ranking. Regularly check your site’s results on Google and use the Google Search Console to monitor for such issues.
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What to do in the Event of a WordPress Hack?
If you notice any of these signs, take immediate action to minimize the impact. Here are some steps to get started:
- Update Your WordPress Version, Plugins, and Themes – Outdated versions are vulnerable to attacks.
- Change All Passwords – Update passwords for all user accounts, FTP, and hosting access.
- Restore from a Backup – Restore to a clean version of your site if you have a recent backup.
- Use a Security Plugin – Plugins like Wordfence, Sucuri, or iThemes Security can help identify and remove malware.
- Contact Your Hosting Provider – They can assist with removing malicious files and securing your account.
- Monitor Your Site – Keep an eye on your site’s performance, new user accounts, and installed files to prevent future attacks.
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How to Prevent WordPress Hacks?
We’ve shared some tips to help you determine when your site has been tampered with. Ideally, you would want to take some times to prevent WordPress hacks from happening in the first place. Here are some WordPress security best practices to help prevent security breaches:
- Use Strong Passwords and Change Them Regularly
- Keep WordPress, Plugins, and Themes Updated
- Limit Login Attempts
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication
- Use HTTPS (SSL Certificate) for secure data transmission
- Regularly Back Up Your Site to ensure quick restoration after a potential attack
Conclusion
Identifying these signs and taking prompt action can keep your WordPress site safe from hackers. Proactive monitoring and using best practices for site security are the most effective ways to protect your online presence. For the highest level of protection, consider hiring a WordPress maintenance agency to take proactive care of your site.
David