Tag Archive for: website security

Is Your WordPress Site Being Targeted by Bots? Here’s What to Look For

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If you’ve noticed strange search queries or unusual behavior on your WordPress site, you’re not alone. WordPress powers over 40% of the web, making it a prime target for automated bots looking for vulnerabilities.

Recently, I logged into my WordPress dashboard and found odd search queries like /home/order/complete/id/1 and var_dump(md5(2333)) thanks to the help of Relevanssi – A Better Search plugin.

See below screenshot.

 

screenshot of plugin Relevanssi User Searches dashboard

screenshot of plugin Relevanssi User Searches dashboard

 

Now I know these aren’t normal user searches. And with the help of ChatGPT, I was able to confirm these are most likely automated probes trying to exploit vulnerabilities in plugins or other databases.

 

ChatGPT helping to troubleshoot search queries

ChatGPT helping to troubleshoot search queries

 

I no longer care about making typos with ChatGPT, it gets me.

 

Is it ok to trust what ChatGPT says?

Of course! But just like any other source, online or for real life, you should get a second opinion.  For me, it’s good ole’ Google.

 

screenshot of Google SERPs showing malicious content

screenshot of Google SERPs showing malicious content

 

What Are These Bots Looking For?

Bots are testing your site for:

  • Exposed files or APIs like /order or /index.
  • Injection vulnerabilities (e.g., var_dump attempts to dump sensitive server data).
  • Outdated plugins or themes that might have unpatched security holes.

 

Why You Should Be Concerned

While these bots may not succeed immediately, they pose a real threat. If your site isn’t properly secured, it could lead to:

  • Malware injection
  • Data theft
  • Website defacement or downtime

 

Now’s a great time for WordPress maintenance for your website.

 

How to Protect Your WordPress Site

Here’s how to safeguard your site from bot attacks:

  1. Install a Security Plugin: Use tools like Wordfence or Sucuri to block malicious traffic and monitor activity.
  2. Update Everything: Keep WordPress, plugins, and themes up to date to patch vulnerabilities.
  3. Disable File Editing: Add define('DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT', true); to your wp-config.php.
  4. Restrict Sensitive Endpoints: Use .htaccess or a firewall to block access to files like xmlrpc.php and /wp-admin.
  5. Scan for Malware: Run a full scan to ensure your site hasn’t already been compromised.

 

Stay Proactive

Bots are persistent, but with the right security measures in place, you can stay ahead of potential threats. Regular maintenance and monitoring are key to keeping your WordPress site safe.

Need help securing your WordPress site? Contact me for professional support!

Is Your Website Blocked? Use Google Safe Browsing to Check

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A flagged site can harm your reputation and scare away visitors, often without you even knowing there’s a problem. Google’s Safe Browsing Transparency Report is a powerful tool that can help you check your website’s status, understand why it might be blocked, and fix any issues.

Here are 7 ways to use this tool to keep your site safe and ensure it’s accessible to visitors.

If you’re concerned that your website has been flagged as unsafe by Google, you’re not alone.

1. Check if Your Website is Flagged as Unsafe

Wondering if Google has marked your site as risky? Start by entering your website’s URL in the Safe Browsing Transparency Report. This quick search lets you see if Google considers your site unsafe, and if it does, it may also show up as a warning in users’ browsers. These warnings can lead to a significant drop in traffic, so it’s crucial to address them right away.

2. Understand the Reason for the Block

If your site is flagged, Google’s report often provides details about why it was blocked. Common reasons include malware, phishing attempts, or hosting spam content. Knowing the specific cause helps you focus on what needs to be fixed. For example, if phishing is detected, you might need to review user-generated content or remove suspicious files that hackers may have added.

3. Identify Malware and Phishing Warnings

Hackers sometimes inject malicious code into websites without the owner’s knowledge. Google’s Safe Browsing tool detects if malware or phishing content is present on your site, so you can take steps to remove it. For additional guidance, check out this guide on cleaning hacked WordPress sites, which offers practical steps to make your site safe again.

4. Get Tips on Fixing Security Issues

Once you know the problem, the Transparency Report can direct you to resources for resolving it. Google provides links to helpful guides on removing malware, securing your site, and updating software. These resources are a great help, especially if you’re not well-versed in website security. For WordPress site owners, regular WordPress maintenance can prevent many common security issues, keeping your site safe and running smoothly.

5. View Your Site’s Security History

The Transparency Report also lets you check your site’s history with Google’s Safe Browsing checks. This can show you if your site has been flagged in the past, helping you spot recurring issues. For instance, if your site keeps getting flagged for malware, it might be time to tighten your security measures, like adding a firewall or updating your CMS.

6. Request a Review to Remove the Block

After you’ve addressed all the flagged issues, you can request a review to remove the block. Google will re-evaluate your site to make sure it’s safe for users. This process can take a few days, so it’s important to be thorough in cleaning up your site before requesting a review. Any lingering issues could delay the block’s removal.

7. Monitor Your Site Regularly to Avoid Future Blocks

To avoid being caught off guard in the future, make it a habit to check the Google Safe Browsing Transparency Report regularly. Routine checks help you catch potential issues early, before they lead to a block. You can also set up alerts in Google Search Console to receive notifications if any new security threats are detected on your site.

Why Does Google Block Websites, and How Can You Avoid It?

Google blocks websites that pose a risk to users, such as sites with malware, phishing content, or known vulnerabilities. This is part of Google’s effort to keep the internet safe for everyone. To reduce the chances of your website being flagged, consider these best practices:

  • Keep your software updated – Regularly update your CMS, plugins, and themes to close any security gaps.
  • Use strong, unique passwords – Avoid weak passwords, and consider changing them periodically.
  • Run malware scans – Use security tools or plugins to scan your site for potential issues.
  • Limit user access – Only give access to trusted individuals, and review permissions regularly.

More Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my website has been flagged by Google?
Head over to the Google Safe Browsing Transparency Report and enter your site’s URL. If Google considers your site unsafe, you’ll see a warning there.

How long does it take for Google to lift the block once I request a review?
Google’s review process typically takes a few days. While you’re waiting, keep an eye on your site to ensure no new issues pop up that could delay the process.

Can I keep my site from being flagged again?
There’s no 100% guarantee, but you can reduce the risk by practicing good security habits: keep your software updated, scan regularly for malware, and restrict access to only those who need it. For WordPress sites, regular WordPress maintenance can go a long way in preventing future security problems.

Key Takeaways

Google’s Safe Browsing Transparency Report is a must-have tool for any website owner serious about keeping their site safe and accessible. Regularly checking your site’s status and staying on top of security issues can help you avoid those frustrating blocks that scare off visitors and hurt your reputation.

Make it a habit to bookmark the Transparency Report and work it into your routine website maintenance. A little proactive effort now can save you a lot of headaches down the line, keeping your site secure, your traffic steady, and your visitors happy.