A recent and currently growing online threat is causing some malicious ramifications for business owners utilizing WordPress websites, including deactivation of the sites, leaking of confidential payment information, and a large decrease in search engine page ranks.
Website security experts have reported a recent attack, called a “zero-day attack”, that has affected millions of WordPress websites to date. A zero-day attack refers to when hackers have found a newly discovered exploit in a software and formed an attack, most specifically before the software developer was aware of it and could implement a security patch solution. The attack has been increasing in size over the past couple of weeks, breaching security through a plugin on the website called WP File Manager. Reports on the spread of the malware have confirmed that several hundred thousand websites are still breached due to currently running an outdated version of the plugin.
Malware, short for malicious software, are programs that have been created to infiltrate computers and steal information or cause damage in secret. Vulnerabilities are created from the attacks that can have far-reaching consequences for the infected website.
Chat with our website security experts at OCGnow to learn more about how we can help identify if malware has infected your website and how it can affect your online capital.
The most significant exploit made possible from this attack is the compromising of core WordPress website files. This can create an open door for future attacks if not taken care of correctly. Additionally, any and all user role credentials (such as usernames and passwords) that are associated with the website have been logged by the malware developers.
Another exploit caused by the former WP File Manager vulnerability may directly impact other plugins that are installed on your site by XSS, or cross-site scripting. eCommerce plugins that are used to sell products on websites like WooCommerce present a high risk due to the sensitive payment related information they contain. Surges of SEO spam to affected websites have also been reported, which can negatively impact rankings with major search engines.
Investments in advertising efforts are also being affected. Leading software platforms like Google Ads have protective measures in place that suspend Ads representing websites infected with malware, losing valuable engagement opportunities.
Removing malware, and hardening your website to a range of attacks, requires professional website protection. OCGnow helps businesses protect their online capital with superior security monitoring.
Do you know if your website is being attacked through the WP File Manager exploit? An inactive website, breach of confidential and sensitive customer payment information, or a significant drop in search engine page ranking can all harm your brand image. It is crucial to protect your online presence as it is the representation of your brand. Don’t let inadequate website protection derail your marketing investments.
We at OCGnow can help.
Your Online Capital Group offers full-service solutions for business owners to protect, design, and market their online presence. Get expert intervention and support for issues that can compromise the foundation of your brand’s reputation. Give us a call at 904-600-3600 and schedule a free evaluation of your website to determine if your assets are safe from the surge of online attacks that are happening every day.
