WordPress Hacked: Why Your Site Still Feels Dirty & How to Recover

WordPress hacked

Introduction:

So, your WordPress site got hacked. It’s a nightmare scenario for any website owner, and unfortunately, it’s a very common one. After the initial panic, you’ve taken steps to remove the malware, restore from a backup, and maybe even hired a professional to help. Your site is back up and running, but… something doesn’t feel quite right. You might be feeling that your site is somehow “dirty” after the fact. This article delves into why you may feel that way and the lingering challenges that can impact your site’s security, code, and SEO performance.

The Lingering Distrust:

Even after a successful cleanup, it’s normal to feel a lingering sense of distrust. You might be asking yourself:

  • Did we get everything? Are there still hidden files or backdoors left behind by the hackers?
  • Could it happen again? Is the website as secure as it was before?
  • Has our reputation been damaged? How long will the effects of the hack linger?

This distrust stems from the nature of hacks. Hackers can be incredibly sneaky, leaving behind subtle code changes that are difficult to detect.

The Messy Code Reality

Cleaning up a hacked WordPress site often leaves behind a mess. Here’s why:

  • Injected Code: Hackers often inject malicious code into theme files, plugin files, database entries, or even core WordPress files. Even if the malware is removed, this injected code can be difficult to remove fully, and may still leave behind issues.
  • Compromised Plugins & Themes: Even a fully removed theme or plugin can be a point of infection. Compromised plugins or themes may have been altered, and should not be used, even if they were not the initial point of entry.
  • Database Mess: Hackers may also inject unwanted data into your database, making it bloated and disorganized. This can impact your site’s performance, cause database errors, and make cleanup incredibly messy.

Even when you do your best to manually clean up, it’s easy to miss hidden malware, making your site feel “dirty” and unstable. You may have issues where random posts appear, the layout looks odd, pages are slow to load, etc.

The SEO Nightmare and Spam:

A hacked WordPress site can wreak havoc on your SEO:

  • Spam Injections: Hackers often create spam pages or insert hidden spam links. These can damage your website’s reputation and hurt your search engine rankings.
  • Spam Posts & Comments: Spam and unauthorized posts may have been added to your site to help with the hackers goals, and these can linger and hurt your site.
  • Keyword Stuffing: Hackers can sometimes inject unwanted keywords into your website content or SEO settings. This could include keywords for unrelated or malicious purposes, which can damage SEO rankings and lower user experience.
  • Blacklisting: Your website may also have been added to blacklists by Google or other services, which prevents people from accessing the site, and greatly reduces rankings.
  • Google Penalties: Google may penalize your site for these issues, making it difficult for people to find you in search results.
  • Slow Loading Times: All of this added bloat can lead to slow loading pages, which is bad for SEO.

Cleaning up these SEO issues is often time-consuming and can feel like a never-ending battle. You may also have to disavow a large amount of bad links, using third party SEO tools.

Rebuilding Trust and Moving Forward:

Rebuilding trust in your site after a hack is difficult, but essential. Here’s what you should do:

  • Implement Robust Security: Install a strong security plugin, enable two-factor authentication, and consider using a web application firewall (WAF).
  • Regular Backups: Ensure you have regular, clean backups. A good backup will be important to restore your site quickly if something were to happen again.
  • Core, Theme, and Plugin Updates: Keep all software updated to patch vulnerabilities.
  • Regular Security Scans: Implement security scans and check to see if there are issues on your site regularly.
  • SEO Audits: Regularly audit your site for signs of spam, keyword stuffing, or compromised content.
  • Consider a Fresh Start: If your site is too messy, or you simply do not trust it any longer, you might consider starting fresh with a new installation of WordPress, and copying over only your content.
  • Be Proactive: Watch for suspicious activity, and learn from the experience, to reduce future risk.

Conclusion:

Recovering from a WordPress hack is not just about getting your site back online; it’s also about rebuilding trust in your website, cleaning up the mess, and restoring your SEO rankings. The feeling of a “dirty” site is a valid concern after a hack, and being aware of these lingering issues is essential for taking action and ensuring the long-term health of your website. By taking the right steps, you can strengthen your site’s security and regain the trust of your users and search engines.

Have you ever recovered from a WordPress hack? Share your experience in the comments below!

If you’re feeling unsure about your site’s security, reach out to a professional for help.

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Website Builders You Can Buy for a One-Time Fee

one-time payment website builder vs subscription fees

When it comes to choosing a website builder, many people are drawn to options that don’t come with recurring subscription fees. For those looking to make a one-time investment, several website builders offer this model, providing long-term value without ongoing costs. The best of these options is UltimateWB, known for its flexibility and robust feature set. But are there others? Let’s explore.

UltimateWB: The Best One-Time Fee Website Builder

UltimateWB stands out as the top choice for those who want to pay once and own their website builder forever. It offers various versions tailored to different needs, from simple sites to complex social networks. Key features include:

  • Fully customizable design
  • Built-in SEO tools
  • E-commerce capabilities
  • Social network integration
  • Regular updates without additional fees for 1 year

With UltimateWB, you have a comprehensive solution that caters to both beginners and advanced users, making it a versatile option for any website project. Plus, there are no hidden costs or limitations that could affect your website’s functionality.

Other Website Builders with One-Time Fees

While UltimateWB is the leader in this space, a few other website builders also offer one-time purchase options. However, each comes with its own set of limitations:

  1. Webflow (Lite Plan) – based on subscription, but you can cancel it
    • What You Get: Webflow’s Lite plan allows you to design and export your website.
    • Limitations: The exported website is static, meaning it doesn’t include dynamic features like CMS, user interactions, or forms. If you want to update content frequently or need a blog, you’ll have to manually edit the code or integrate with external services, which can be cumbersome. You cannot re-import the code into Webflow.
  2. Pinegrow
    • What You Get: Pinegrow is a desktop application for building responsive websites.
    • Limitations: While Pinegrow provides powerful design tools, it’s more suited for developers or designers comfortable with HTML and CSS. The learning curve can be steep for beginners, and the lack of built-in hosting or CMS can be a drawback for those looking for an all-in-one solution.
  3. Blocs
    • What You Get: Blocs is a Mac-only website builder that allows for a visual approach to creating responsive websites.
    • Limitations: Blocs doesn’t offer CMS or e-commerce functionalities out of the box. It’s ideal for creating static websites, but if you need dynamic features or online store capabilities, you’ll have to look elsewhere or integrate third-party tools.
  4. Mobirise
    • What You Get: Mobirise is a free offline app for creating small and medium websites.
    • Limitations: While the core app is free, essential features like themes and extensions require a one-time purchase. Mobirise also lacks built-in CMS or e-commerce tools, making it less suitable for businesses that need more than just a basic online presence.

Why Choose a One-Time Fee Website Builder?

Opting for a website builder with a one-time fee offers several benefits:

  • Cost Savings: Avoid recurring monthly or annual fees.
  • Ownership: You own the software or code, providing more flexibility.
  • Control: With self-hosted options, you have greater control over your website’s performance and data.

However, as highlighted, not all one-time fee website builders offer the same level of functionality or ease of use. This is where UltimateWB excels, providing a complete package without the need for additional tools or technical expertise.

Conclusion

For those who prefer a one-time investment over recurring costs, UltimateWB is the standout choice, offering a comprehensive set of features and excellent flexibility. While other builders like Webflow, Pinegrow, Blocs, and Mobirise offer one-time fee options, their limitations—such as static exports, lack of CMS, or the need for additional technical skills—highlight why UltimateWB is the superior choice for most users.

Explore more options for website builders that match your budget and needs at ChooseWebsiteBuilder.com, where you can find detailed comparisons and recommendations.

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Mullenweg’s Grip On WordPress Challenged In New Court Filing

WordPress challenged in court filing

A recent Motion to Intervene filed in the WP Engine lawsuit against Automattic and Matt Mullenweg has brought significant attention to the governance of WordPress. The motion, submitted by Michael Willman, a WordPress web developer and moderator of the r/WPDrama subreddit, alleges several claims against Mullenweg, seeking both monetary awards and a reform of WordPress’s governance structure.

Legal Filing Aims to Overhaul WordPress Governance

One of the pivotal requests in the legal filing is the establishment of a WordPress Governance Oversight Board. This board would oversee the governance of the WordPress Foundation, WordPress.org, and other related entities. The motion’s proposed order includes:

“Order Defendant Matt Mullenweg to establish a Governance Oversight Board as defined in the Proposed Order For Contempt filed by Michael Willman.”

Background of the Legal Dispute

Michael Willman, CEO of Redev, a WordPress development and SEO company, claims that being banned by Mullenweg led to substantial financial losses. Willman asserts that the ban, which occurred during a contentious period, resulted in the loss of a $14,500 contract and subsequent client relationships, severely impacting his business.

Willman shared his experience with Search Engine Journal:

“Near the start of this dispute, I lost a large ($14,500) contract as a direct result of being banned by Matt along with everyone else loosely associated. We had just closed the contract mere days before and the client is just seeing all these stories, and they back out.”

Willman’s retaliation claim includes being banned from WordPress platforms and Mullenweg’s inconsistent application of the Code of Conduct. He believes Mullenweg’s actions were unjustified and contributed to his financial and professional losses.

Community Reactions

The Reddit WordPress community has largely supported Willman. One member commented:

“A client backing out of a signed contract ($14,500) because you being banned created a significant change is the most clear-cut example of harm from the WPE bans that I’ve seen so far. F*** MM, and I really hope this is granted.”

Another user expressed admiration for Willman’s handling of the situation:

“Dude you’re my hero ❤”

Claims for Relief

The legal filing lists fifteen claims:

The legal filing lists fifteen claims, among them are:

  1. Intentional Interference with Contractual Relations
    • Mullenweg’s actions disrupted existing contracts, leading to significant financial losses for Willman.
  2. Intentional Interference with Prospective Economic Relations
    • The bans hindered potential business opportunities, damaging Willman’s ability to secure new projects.
  3. Attempted Extortion
    • Mullenweg allegedly offered business referrals conditional on Willman ceasing work with WP Engine and joining Automattic’s affiliate program.
  4. Libel
    • Public claims by Mullenweg of threats of physical violence from Willman were labeled as defamatory and damaging to Willman’s reputation.
  5. Trade Libel
    • Mullenweg’s statements disparaged Willman’s professional services, harming his business and reputation.
  6. Breach of Contract
    • Allegations that Mullenweg’s actions violated the terms of service or agreements within the WordPress community.
  7. Negligence
    • Claims that Mullenweg failed to uphold the standard of care expected in his position, leading to financial harm.
  8. Fraud
    • Accusations of deceitful practices that misled Willman and others in the community.
  9. Unfair Business Practices
    • Assertions that Mullenweg engaged in actions that distorted fair competition within the WordPress ecosystem.
  10. Misrepresentation
    • Claims that Mullenweg provided false or misleading information to justify his actions.
  11. Breach of Fiduciary Duty
    • Allegations that Mullenweg failed to act in the best interest of the WordPress community.
  12. Conversion
    • Claims of unauthorized control over Willman’s access to essential WordPress platforms.
  13. Defamation
    • Further claims of slanderous statements made by Mullenweg that harmed Willman’s reputation.
  14. Civil Conspiracy
    • Allegations that Mullenweg conspired with others to harm Willman’s business.
  15. Violation of the California Unfair Competition Law
    • Accusations of engaging in unfair, unlawful, and fraudulent business practices in violation of state law.

Potential Impact of the Motion

This motion challenges the centralized control Mullenweg holds over WordPress, a cornerstone of the open-source community relied upon by millions worldwide. The proposed governance changes aim to democratize decision-making and reduce the influence of a single individual.

Further Reading

For those interested in the legal intricacies, read it in full: Motion to Intervene & Motion for Contempt Filed in WPEngine, Inc. v. Automattic Inc.

Additionally, the Reddit community’s discussion on this topic provides further insights and reactions to the motion.

Conclusion

The outcome of this motion could redefine the governance of WordPress, shifting from individual control to a more collective oversight structure. The case will undoubtedly be closely watched by the WordPress community and beyond as it unfolds.

For those exploring alternatives to WordPress, you can check out other website builders on ChooseWebsiteBuilder.com. This site offers comparisons and reviews of various website building platforms, helping users find the best tool suited to their needs, whether they seek simplicity, customization, or specific features.

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WordPress in Turmoil: Lawsuits Threaten the Future of the Open-Source Platform

WordPress.org platform may close

WordPress, the world’s most popular open-source content management system (CMS), is facing a major challenge. A heated legal battle between WordPress co-founder Matt Mullenweg and hosting company WP Engine has cast a shadow of uncertainty over the platform’s future.

Mullenweg has made some alarming statements, suggesting that the ongoing lawsuits could potentially “bankrupt me or force the closure of WordPress.org.” This has sent shockwaves through the WordPress community, with developers, businesses, and individual users worried about the platform’s stability.

The Root of the Conflict

The conflict stems from disagreements over access to certain WordPress resources. Mullenweg initiated actions that restricted WP Engine’s access, prompting the hosting company to file a lawsuit in response. Mullenweg insists that dropping the lawsuit is the only way to resolve the issue, allowing him to continue his efforts to limit WP Engine’s involvement in the WordPress ecosystem.

What Does This Mean for Website Builders?

While the specifics of the lawsuit deal with internal WordPress matters, it’s important to consider the potential implications for website builders in general. Here’s a breakdown of the key concerns:

  • Uncertainty for the Future: The ongoing legal battle creates instability for the entire WordPress ecosystem. This uncertainty could impact the development and direction of the platform, potentially affecting website builders that rely on WordPress.
  • Potential Disruption: A prolonged legal battle could lead to disruptions within WordPress, impacting website builders that integrate with the platform.
  • Impact on Open-Source Community: The conflict highlights potential challenges within the open-source model. It’s important to consider the long-term health of open-source platforms when choosing a website builder.

Choosing the Right Website Builder for You

Given the current uncertainty surrounding WordPress, it’s wise to explore alternative website builder options. Here are a few examples:

  • UltimateWB: Renowned for its flexibility, customization, scalability, and powerful features, UltimateWB offers a robust and versatile platform for building dynamic websites.
  • Wix: A user-friendly drag-and-drop builder with a wide range of features and templates. Ideal for beginners and those seeking a visually-oriented platform.
  • Squarespace: Known for its beautiful design templates and ease of use. A good choice for creatives and businesses looking for a polished online presence.
  • Weebly: Offers a good balance of affordability and functionality. Well-suited for basic websites and small businesses.

Stay Informed

The situation with WordPress is still unfolding. We’ll continue to monitor the developments and provide updates on our website. In the meantime, explore the various website builder options available and choose the platform that best suits your needs.

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Are All Website Builders No-Code?

No-Code vs Coding Required Website Builders

In recent years, website builders have revolutionized the way individuals and businesses create websites, promising a no-code experience that removes the need for any coding knowledge. But are all website builders truly no-code, or is there more to the story?

What Does No-Code Really Mean?

The term “no-code” refers to the ability to create and manage a website without writing any code. This approach relies on intuitive drag-and-drop interfaces or a user-friendly admin panel, pre-designed templates, and customization options that can be adjusted through graphical user interfaces. For users, this means they can build websites without needing to learn programming languages like HTML, CSS, or JavaScript.

Are All Website Builders Truly No-Code?

While many website builders market themselves as no-code, the reality can vary significantly from one platform to another. Here are some distinctions:

Fully No-Code Builders

Platforms like Wix, Squarespace, and Weebly fall into the fully no-code category. They offer extensive design and customization options without requiring users to touch code. These builders are ideal for beginners or those who prefer a simple, straightforward website creation process.

No-Code with Optional Code Customization

Some website builders, such as WordPress and UltimateWB, are primarily no-code but provide the flexibility to add custom code if desired. This hybrid approach caters to both beginners and more experienced users who want to personalize their websites beyond the provided tools and templates.

Code-Dependent Builders

Platforms like Dreamweaver fall into the code-dependent category. These builders may require a basic understanding of coding for certain customizations or functionalities. While they offer some no-code features, coding is often necessary to unlock more advanced capabilities, making them less accessible for true beginners. These platforms might offer some no-code features but often need coding to unlock more advanced capabilities, making them less accessible for true beginners.

Choosing the Right Website Builder for Your Needs

When selecting a website builder, it’s essential to assess your technical skills and the level of customization you require. If you’re looking for a completely no-code experience, fully no-code builders are your best bet. However, if you appreciate the flexibility to add custom features, a hybrid platform might be more suitable.

Conclusion

Not all website builders are entirely no-code, but many offer varying degrees of coding flexibility to cater to different user needs. By understanding the distinctions between these platforms, you can choose the one that best aligns with your skills and goals, ensuring a smooth and successful website-building experience.

Whether you’re a complete novice or a tech-savvy user, there’s a website builder out there that can meet your requirements, from fully no-code solutions to platforms that offer a blend of simplicity and customization.

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