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Malware FAQ: What Malware Is, Types, Prevention, and Removal

Welcome to our Malware FAQ! You're in the right place if you're wondering what malware is and how it can affect your website. We'll explore the different types of malware, how they can sneak onto your site, and the potential damage they can cause. Plus, we'll share tips to prevent malware infections and explain why services like Bluehost might suspend accounts if malware is detected. You'll also find out whether you need to use SiteLock and get straightforward advice on removing malware from your website. By the end of this article, you'll be better equipped to keep your online presence safe and secure.



Q: What is malware?

A: Malware is malicious code or program that can be installed onto a website through vulnerabilities (e.g., outdated code).

Q: What are the different kinds of malware?

A: There are various types of malware. To name a few: Ransomware (disables access), Fileless Malware (changes files), Spyware (collects user activity), Adware (shows unwanted ads), Trojans (disguises as normal code), Keyloggers (monitors keystrokes), and Bots (overwhelms a system).

Q: How does malware get on a website?

A: Cybercriminals use vulnerabilities on the website, such as outdated code, plugins, and themes, to inject their malicious code. When malicious content is installed, it impacts your website performance quickly and can become worse if not addressed.

Q: What can malware do to a website?

A: Malware is like getting a virus. It can lay dormant for years, affect website content (appearance) and performance, put your visitors at risk, and create backdoor access for cybercriminals. Depending on the malware, it can also impact your SEO and Google ranks.

Q: How can I prevent malware?

A: There is no way to keep malware out entirely, as new strains are created every hour. Keeping good security habits such as updating security patches and code, removing old software that is no longer used, getting a firewall, and using strong passwords can help prevent a website infection.

Q: Why would Bluehost suspend your account if malware is found?

A: We must suspend accounts as a security measure and mitigate the risk of malware spreading across the Bluehost platform.

Q: Do you have to use SiteLock?

A: No, SiteLock is a third-party product that we offer to make a convenient one-stop shop for our customers. You are not required to use it and have many other options to choose from.

Q: How do you remove malware from your website?

A: To learn how to remove malware from your WordPress site, please visit the following link: How to Remove Malware from Your WordPress Site.

Summary

To wrap up our Malware FAQ, we hope that you feel empowered to protect your website. Understanding the many types of malware and the ways they can infiltrate your site is important because they represent risks such as account suspension from services like Bluehost. Prevention is the best medicine! Whether you choose to go with SiteLock or another option, staying on top of security is really important.

If you need further assistance, feel free to contact us via Chat or Phone:

  • Chat Support - While on our website, you should see a CHAT bubble in the bottom right-hand corner of the page. Click anywhere on the bubble to begin a chat session.
  • Phone Support -
    • US: 888-401-4678
    • International: +1 801-765-9400

You may also refer to our Knowledge Base articles to help answer common questions and guide you through various setup, configuration, and troubleshooting steps.

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