The website has been hacked. The first thing you need to do is not panic and take steps to restore security. Below are the steps that will help you bring your website back to normal:
1. Disable the website: The first thing you should do is disable the website to prevent further hacking and harm to users. You can temporarily disable the website by either disabling it through the hosting or using the .htaccess file.
2. Isolate the problem: Before you start restoring the website, you need to determine how the website was hacked. You can identify the problem by reviewing the server logs, database, and website files. Pay attention to new and modified files, suspicious external links, and changed settings.
3. Remove malicious files: After identifying the cause of the hack, identify and remove all malicious files. These are usually files with extensions like .php, .js, and .html that have been added from outside and may contain malicious code. Carefully review all the folders on the website and delete any suspicious or unknown files.
4. Update CMS and plugins: Updating the CMS (Content Management System), such as WordPress or Joomla, and all the plugins and themes you use is one of the most important steps to ensure website security. Outdated versions of CMS and plugins may have known vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers to breach the website. Install the latest versions of CMS and plugins to protect your website.
5. Change passwords: Restoring website security also includes changing passwords for all accounts, such as administrators, editors, and users. Use complex and unique passwords that include letters, numbers, and special characters. Regularly change passwords to prevent data leaks or unauthorized access to the website.
6. Restore from backup: If you have a backup of the website, restore the website from it. This will help you bring the website back to its normal state before the hack. If you don't have a backup, try to restore old versions of files and databases if they are saved.
7. Strengthen security: After restoring the website, it is recommended to take additional measures to strengthen security. Rename administrative panels and delete or rename standard folders such as /wp-admin/ or /administrator/. Install security programs and plugins that help detect and prevent hacks.
8. Monitor security: After restoring the website and strengthening security, it is recommended to regularly monitor the website for vulnerabilities and potential threats. Use online tools or software that help you track changes and regularly scan the website.
9. Regularly create backups: To prevent future security issues, it is necessary to regularly create and store backups of the website. This will allow you to restore the website in case of any issues such as hacks, errors, or crashes.
10. Track activity: And lastly, regularly monitor activity on your website. Be vigilant about incoming comments, new user registrations, and file changes. If you notice suspicious activity, take measures to prevent it and restore website security.