When a client contacted us about their WordPress needing updates, we discovered something far worse than a few out of date plugins. Their site was infected with not one, but two different types of malware that had been silently wreaking havoc for years.
The Initial Problem
The client contacted us for what seemed like routine maintenance. They wanted their WordPress plugins and themes updated and weren't aware of any security issues. They simply wanted to do updates to keep their site running smoothly and ensure everything was current.
As WordPress security specialists based in Sydney Australia, we encounter template based infected sites regularly, but this particular case stood out because of the dual infection and the age of the malware variants. The reason template infections are so widespread is simple hackeconomics for cybercrims. When talented hackers discover a vulnerability in a popular WordPress theme, they can potentially exploit thousands of websites using that same template. The return on investment is huge compared to targeting single sites.
Popular themes that are outdated can have tens of thousands of installations. A single exploit can compromise entire networks of websites simultaneously, making it far more profitable than custom attacks. This client was using a widely distributed theme that had been compromised years ago, yet the malicious code continued to spread due to its outdated version.
With modern AI tools, cybercrims can now automate the process of finding vulnerable websites at unprecedented scale. They can scan millions of sites within hours, identifying specific theme names & version numbers. What once required manual effort and technical expertise can now be automated with simple scripts that crawl the web, detect outdated themes, and deploy attacks automatically. This means a vulnerability discovered today can be exploited across thousands of websites within days, not months.
Investigating the Malware Infections
Our first step was to create a complete backup before beginning our forensic analysis. We always work on a staging environment to prevent further damage during the clean up process.
Discovery 1: The Phantom Redirect Malware
The first infection came from an outdated theme the client had purchased years ago and hadn't been updated.
This can often be a problem that things are going swimmingly for years with your purchased theme template and then the developers stop doing updates for it, or they have a bunch of exploits unpatched.
In this instance they had released fixes over the years, but the theme had not been updated.
Discovery 2: The Content Injection Malware
The second infection had compromised the WordPress database and was automatically creating fake blog posts with SEO optimised content.
The malware had:
- Created a hidden user account with administrator privileges
- Scheduled posts to publish automatically at random intervals
- Injected malicious scripts into existing legitimate posts
- Modified the site's .htaccess file to hide the spam content from site owners
Our Cleanup Process
Step 1: Remove Malicious Files
We identified and removed:
- The infected theme files
- Suspicious PHP files in the uploads directory
- Hidden .htaccess files in various folders
Step 3: Database Cleanup
We carefully went through the WordPress database to:
- Totally remove all spam blog posts and comments and clean the database
Step 4: Theme and Plugin Audit
We updated all themes and plugins to their latest versions and removed any that were no longer maintained or unnecessary. The infected theme was completely replaced with the last updated version that had patched those exploits.
The Aftermath and Results
After completing the clean up and update, the client's website was:
- Completely free of malicious redirects
- Protected against similar future attacks with the updates.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
This case highlights several important security practices for WordPress site owners:
Keep things updated: The initial infection came from an outdated theme. Regular updates are your first line of defence.
Regular security scans: Monthly security scans can catch infections before they cause serious damage.
Strong authentication: Use complex passwords and enable two-factor authentication on all admin accounts.
Regular backups: Clean, recent backups can save you hours of recovery time if the worst happens.
Common Signs Your WordPress Site Might Be Infected
Watch out for these warning signs:
- Unexpected redirects to other websites
- New user accounts you didn't create
- Blog posts appearing that you didn't write
- Slow loading times or server errors
- Warnings from Google about malware
- Spam emails being sent from your domain
The Cost of Ignoring WordPress Security
While this particular site was infected for years, it thankfully didn't get submitted to search results and or result in their hosting account being suspended.
We've seen cases where malware infections have led to:
- Complete loss of website data
- Blacklisting by Google and other search engines
- Hosting account termination
- Customer data breaches
- Revenue loss
Why Professional Help Matters
Our systematic approach ensures that:
- Malware variants are identified and removed
- The infection 'attack vector' is closed
- Proper security measures are implemented
- The site is monitored for signs of reinfection with our WordPress Support Plans
Ready to Secure Your WordPress Website?
Don't wait until you're dealing with a full blown malware infection. Whether your site is already compromised or you want to prevent future attacks, professional WordPress security services can save you time, money, and stress.
If you're experiencing any of the warning signs mentioned above, or if your website has been hacked, don't panic. We specialise in WordPress malware removal and security hardening for Australian businesses of all sizes.
Our team can generally have your site cleaned, secured, and protected within 48 hours.