If your website has been hacked with a “keyword hack,” it means attackers have inserted malicious keywords into your site’s content, usually to manipulate search engine rankings. This type of hack can severely damage your SEO and user trust. Here’s how you can recover your website:
1. Identify the Hack:
- Google Search Console: Check for any warnings or messages about security issues or unnatural links.
- Manual Search: Look through your website content and search results for unusual keywords or content that doesn’t belong.
- Site Scans: Use website security scanners (e.g., Sucuri, SiteLock, Wordfence) to identify malicious files and code.
2. Take the Site Offline (If Necessary):
- If the hack is severe, put the site in maintenance mode or temporarily take it offline to prevent further damage while you work on recovery.
3. Change Passwords and Credentials:
- Change passwords for your website admin panel, hosting, FTP, and databases. Ensure they are strong and unique.
- If possible, set up 2-factor authentication for added security.
4. Clean Up Malicious Code:
- Manual Removal: Go through your website files (HTML, JavaScript, etc.) and databases to remove injected malicious code or keywords.
- Reinstall WordPress/Plugins (if applicable): If your site runs on WordPress or other CMS platforms, reinstall core files and remove any suspicious plugins or themes.
5. Restore from Backup:
- If you have a clean backup from before the hack occurred, restore your site to that point.
- Make sure the backup itself is free from malware before restoring.
6. Check for Vulnerabilities:
- Update all software: Ensure your website’s CMS, themes, and plugins are up-to-date to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Remove unnecessary plugins or themes that may introduce security risks.
7. Strengthen Security:
- Install a security plugin or firewall (e.g., Wordfence for WordPress, or Sucuri for other platforms) to prevent future hacks.
- Consider using a Web Application Firewall (WAF) from your hosting provider to block malicious traffic.
8. Reindex Your Site on Google:
- After cleaning your site, request a reconsideration request in Google Search Console.
- Use the “URL Inspection” tool in Google Search Console to check and resubmit your site for reindexing, ensuring all malicious content is removed.
9. Monitor Your Site Regularly:
- Set up alerts for unusual traffic, keyword changes, or security warnings. Regularly monitor Google Search Console and use website security tools.
10. Seek Professional Help (If Needed):
- If the hack is complex or continues, consider hiring a professional web security expert to fully audit and secure your site.
Bonus: Use HTTPS
- Ensure your website uses HTTPS to encrypt communication between your server and users, adding an extra layer of security.
Taking these steps will help you recover your site and protect it from future attacks. Regular monitoring and strong security measures are essential to keep your website safe from hacks.
