How to recover hacked WordPress website

All websites are vulnerable to cyber threats, including hacking, which can lead to severe consequences if not addressed properly. For instance, a compromised eCommerce site that handles sensitive customer data could put users’ personal information at significant risk.

In this guide, we’ll first highlight common indicators of a hacked website. Then, we’ll walk you through five steps to recover and secure your WordPress site. Let’s dive in!

1. Identify the Hack

• Scan the Site: Use tools like Sucuri, Wordfence, or MalCare to scan for malware and vulnerabilities.
• Look for Symptoms:
  • Unexpected redirects.
  • Unusual admin accounts.
  • Website defacement.
  • Slow or crashing site performance.
  • Warnings from Google or hosting providers.
• Check File Integrity: Compare core WordPress files to a clean installation.

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2. Quarantine the Website

• Take the Site Offline: Place your site in maintenance mode or temporarily disable it to prevent further damage or infecting visitors.
• Backup Your Data: Create a full backup of the current state of your website (files and database). This will help in case recovery steps go wrong.

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3. Remove the Infection

• Delete Suspicious Files: Identify and remove unfamiliar or malicious files, often found in /wp-content/uploads/ or plugin/theme directories.
• Restore Core Files: Reinstall the WordPress core files from a fresh download.
• Clean Database: Remove suspicious database entries or injects. Tools like phpMyAdmin or Adminer can help locate anomalies.
• Reinstall Themes/Plugins: Replace these with fresh versions from trusted sources.

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4. Update and Secure

• Update Everything: Ensure WordPress core, plugins, and themes are updated to their latest versions.
• Change Credentials: Update all passwords (admin, database, FTP, and hosting accounts). Remove unauthorized users.
• Harden WordPress:
  • Disable file editing via wp-config.php (define('DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT', true);).
  • Limit login attempts.
  • Use two-factor authentication.
  • Restrict access to sensitive files (e.g., .htaccess or wp-config.php).

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5. Monitor and Prevent Future Hacks

• Install Security Plugins: Tools like Wordfence, iThemes Security, or Sucuri Firewall provide ongoing protection.
• Set Up Backups: Use plugins like UpdraftPlus, BackupBuddy, or Jetpack to automate regular backups.
• Regular Scans: Schedule scans for malware and vulnerabilities.
• Review Hosting: Consider upgrading to a managed WordPress host that emphasizes security.

At Kodemelon Technologies, we combine these best practices with a results-driven approach to build, recover, powerful, secure, and scalable WordPress websites. Free Consultation with us today to recover your hacked wordpress website!