What to check first
- Preserve logs and a current copy for investigation
- Change important credentials from a trusted device
- Identify the entry point before declaring the site clean
Preserve the incident record
Save the warning, logs, current files, and database before cleanup. Check unfamiliar users, altered plugins, uploads, scripts, and database content. If customers or payments could be affected, get guidance appropriate to the incident.
Close the entry point
Remove malicious changes, replace compromised credentials, update vulnerable components, and inspect scheduled tasks and backdoors. Restoring an old copy without fixing the vulnerability can invite an immediate repeat.
Prove the customer path works
Test pages, forms, logins, and redirects from a clean browser. Coordinate with a host or search provider if a warning or suspension remains, then monitor the site after it returns.
Can a scan prove every file is clean?
No. A scan is a useful clue but does not replace log, account, database, and root-cause review.
Long Island Webmaster is an independent website service provider. References to GoDaddy describe third-party products and do not imply affiliation or endorsement.
Greg Grigorian
Greg is a Long Island webmaster with more than two decades of experience repairing, building, securing, and managing business websites. Clients speak directly with Greg, so the person reviewing the problem is also the person responsible for the work.
ASK GREG ABOUT THIS WEBSITE PROBLEM