How to Remove WordPress Redirect JavaScript Malware: Effective Solutions You Can Try

If your WordPress site is redirecting to spammy or malicious websites, there’s a good chance it’s infected with JavaScript malware. This malware typically injects scripts that can hijack visitor traffic and damage your site’s reputation and search engine ranking. Fortunately, there are solutions available to clean and secure your WordPress site. In this guide, we’ll walk through practical steps to remove JavaScript redirect malware and prevent future infections.

“MALWARE TODAY IS MORE ADVANCED AND EVASIVE THAN EVER BEFORE. EVEN THE BEST SCANNING TOOLS CAN MISS DEEPLY EMBEDDED THREATS HIDDEN WITHIN SERVER LAYERS. REMOVING THESE INFECTIONS COMPLETELY OFTEN REQUIRES A SPECIALIZED SKILL SET AND ADVANCED TOOLS TO TRACK, HUNT, AND ERADICATE ALL TRACES OF MALICIOUS CODE. TO ENSURE YOUR WEBSITE IS TRULY SECURE, CONSULTING WITH EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONALS IS NOT JUST ADVISABLE—IT’S ESSENTIAL.”

John Smith, CEO of CyberShield Solutions

Step 1: Scan Your Website for Malware with Sucuri SiteCheck

The first step in identifying malware on your WordPress site is to perform a comprehensive scan. Sucuri SiteCheck is a free online malware and security scanner that can quickly detect any signs of compromise. Here’s how it works:

1. Visit Sucuri SiteCheck and enter your website URL (e.g., example.com).
2. The scanner will analyze your website for:
   • Known malware and viruses
   • Blacklisting status
   • Website errors
   • Outdated software
   • Malicious code

After scanning, Sucuri will generate a report highlighting any detected issues and recommending steps for removing them. This is an essential first step, as knowing where the malware is located will make it easier to remove.

Step 2: Use a PHP Anti-Malware Scanner on Your Server

Once you’ve identified potential malware locations, scanning your server files can help ensure you catch all infected files. The PHP Anti-Malware Scanner is a powerful tool designed specifically for PHP files. Here’s how you can use it:

1. Download and Install the PHP Anti-Malware Scanner on your server.
2. Run the Scan on all WordPress core files, plugins, themes, and uploads. This will help detect any unusual or malicious PHP code, particularly in places where malware commonly hides.
3. Review the Results and delete any files flagged as malware. Be careful with deletions, and consider backing up files before making changes.

Using a server-based scanner is important because it goes deeper than website scanners alone, ensuring that no malicious code remains hidden on your server.

Step 3: Install ClamAV and Enable On-Access Scanning

For enhanced security, you can install ClamAV, a trusted antivirus software compatible with WordPress servers. ClamAV offers both on-demand and on-access scanning capabilities, which can be very useful in detecting new threats as they emerge.

1. Install ClamAV by following the installation instructions for your server type (Linux or Windows).
2. Enable On-Access Scanning to automatically detect and quarantine suspicious files before they execute.
3. Run a Full Scan of your WordPress directories regularly to catch any emerging threats.

Using ClamAV as a safeguard is highly effective for keeping ongoing threats at bay.

Step 4: Restrict Permissions for Critical Files

File permissions are critical for website security. One essential step is to restrict permissions on the wp-config.php file, which contains sensitive information about your WordPress configuration, including database credentials.

1. Set Permissions for wp-config.php to 400 or 440 to restrict write access. This ensures that only the owner or designated users can modify it.
2. Double-check the permissions for other critical files and folders (e.g., core WordPress files). Aim to set directories to 755 and files to 644 to provide adequate protection.

By limiting permissions, you reduce the risk of unauthorized modifications by malware or hackers.

Step 5: Limit Access to the Login Page and Change the Login URL

To protect against brute-force attacks and unauthorized access, consider implementing additional security measures for your WordPress login page.

1. Limit Login Attempts – Use plugins like Limit Login Attempts Reloaded or Wordfence to block repeated failed login attempts. These tools help prevent brute-force attacks by locking out IPs after multiple unsuccessful logins.
2. Change the Login URL – Instead of using the default wp-login.php URL, switch to a custom login URL to make it harder for bots and attackers to locate your login page. A plugin like Admin Login URL Change allows you to easily modify the WP dashboard URL, enhancing your security with minimal effort.
3. Restrict Access by IP Address – If possible, configure your server’s firewall or .htaccess file to restrict access to your login page by IP address, allowing only trusted IPs.

By securing the login page, you add a strong layer of defense that significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.

Step 6: Install the Anti-Rootkit Tool “Chkrootkit”

Rootkits are particularly dangerous because they can give attackers full control over your server. Chkrootkit is a valuable anti-rootkit tool that scans for known rootkits on Linux-based servers, allowing you to detect and remove any that may be present.

1. Install Chkrootkit by following the installation guide for your server type.
2. Run Regular Scans to detect rootkits that could be enabling malware or unauthorized access.
3. Review the results and take action if Chkrootkit finds any compromised files.

While rootkits are relatively uncommon for WordPress sites, it’s always best to stay proactive and protect against potential threats.

Step 7: Consider Installing Imunify360 (License Required)

If your site is frequently targeted by malware, Imunify360 provides comprehensive security features that go beyond basic scanning and firewall protection. Imunify360 is a commercial security suite that includes proactive threat detection, malware cleanup, intrusion prevention, and much more.

1. Purchase and Install Imunify360 on your server. You’ll need a license, but it’s worth the investment for enhanced protection.
2. Enable Proactive Defense to automatically detect and block threats before they reach your site.
3. Benefit from its comprehensive security tools, including malware scanning, firewall protection, and an intrusion detection system.

Imunify360 provides enterprise-grade security, making it a solid choice for businesses or high-traffic sites that need a high level of protection.

Step 8: Install the Wordfence Security Plugin

Your WordPress site is frequently targeted by malware, and to stay ahead of potential threats, Wordfence provides comprehensive security features that go beyond basic scanning and firewall protection. Wordfence is a powerful security plugin that includes proactive threat detection, malware scanning, live traffic monitoring, and much more.

1. Purchase and Install Wordfence – Install the Wordfence plugin on your WordPress site from the official website. The free version offers excellent protection, but for even more advanced features, consider the premium version.
2. Enable Continuous Scanning – Wordfence continuously scans your site for malware, vulnerabilities, and suspicious behavior, ensuring that no threat goes unnoticed.
3. Monitor Traffic in Real-Time – Wordfence allows you to monitor live traffic and identify malicious IP addresses in real-time, enabling you to block potential attacks before they cause harm.
4. Leverage Advanced Security Tools – In addition to malware scanning, Wordfence includes a robust firewall, login security, and real-time blocking of brute-force attacks, making it a comprehensive security suite for your site.

By installing Wordfence, you equip your website with enterprise-grade security, making it an ideal solution for businesses or high-traffic sites that require continuous monitoring and protection.

Additional Tips for Securing Your WordPress Site

In addition to the above steps, here are a few more tips to help you prevent future infections:

1. Keep WordPress Core, Plugins, and Themes Updated: Outdated software is one of the most common entry points for malware. Regularly updating WordPress core files, plugins, and themes can prevent known vulnerabilities from being exploited.
2. Use Strong Passwords and Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Simple passwords are easy for attackers to guess. Use a strong password for all accounts and enable two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security.
3. Regularly Back Up Your Website: In the event of a security breach, having a recent backup allows you to restore your site quickly. Many plugins, like UpdraftPlus, offer automatic backups for easy restoration.
4. Install a Security Plugin: Security plugins like Wordfence and iThemes Security offer multiple layers of protection, including firewall rules, malware scanning, and login security. Many security plugins can also alert you when unusual activity is detected.
5. Monitor Your Site’s Activity Logs: Monitoring your site’s activity logs can alert you to unusual behavior, such as multiple failed login attempts or unauthorized file changes. Plugins like WP Activity Log can help you track all activity on your site.

Conclusion

JavaScript malware redirect infections are not only frustrating but can also damage your WordPress site’s reputation and SEO ranking. With the right tools and proactive steps, you can identify, remove, and prevent these infections. By starting with a Sucuri SiteCheck scan, using the PHP Anti-Malware Scanner and ClamAV to inspect your server, securing critical files, and limiting login access, you’re well on your way to keeping your site safe. For the highest level of protection, consider investing in premium security tools like Imunify360.

However, even with all these steps, deeply embedded malware may still linger in your server. Some malware is adept at hiding in hard-to-detect places, so consulting a professional is the best way to ensure your site is fully clean and secure. For expert assistance, reach out to the team at MalwareRescue. They specialize in identifying, tracking, and eradicating hidden malware, giving you the confidence that your website is truly protected.

Securing your WordPress site is an ongoing process. Stay vigilant with regular scans and updates to safeguard it from evolving threats—and don’t hesitate to bring in professionals when you need the highest level of protection.