Free tool

Website malware check: is my site hacked?

To check a website for malware, start with Google Search Console's Security Issues report, then look for unknown admin users, recently changed files and redirects that only appear on mobile. Run a free external scan to find exposed files and weak settings that let attackers in.

  • ISO 27001 compliant
  • SOC 2 Type 2 compliant
  • Preferred Cloudflare Partner
  • 24/7 follow-the-sun support

Seven things to check today

  • Google Search Console: the Security Issues and Manual Actions reports.
  • Search for site:yourdomain.com and look for pages you did not create, often in other languages or about pharmacy or gambling.
  • Open the site on a phone from a Google result. Some infections only redirect mobile visitors who arrive from search.
  • CMS users: remove admin accounts you do not recognise.
  • Files changed recently, especially in uploads, theme and plugin folders.
  • Outbound mail volume and your host's resource graphs for sudden spikes.
  • An external security scan for exposed files, old software banners and missing protections.

If you find malware

Take a backup for evidence, then restore from a known clean backup or clean the files. Update the CMS, plugins and themes, rotate every password and API key, and request a review in Search Console once the site is clean.

How Vigilbase helps

Vigilbase runs security operations and website protection for businesses that would rather not build a security team.

Frequently asked questions

How did my website get malware?

Usually through an outdated plugin or theme, a reused or stolen admin password, or a file left exposed on the server.

Will Google remove a hacked-site warning?

Yes, after you clean the site and request a review in Search Console. Reviews usually take a few days.

Can Vigilbase help after a compromise?

Yes. Vigilbase offers incident response and a managed web application firewall to keep attackers out afterwards.

More free tools and guides

Security handled, around the clock

Vigilbase is ISO 27001 and SOC 2 Type 2 compliant and a Preferred Cloudflare Partner, with follow-the-sun support from teams in Kenya, South Africa, the UAE and Portugal.