Google Malware Problems

Google warns its search engine users about websites infected with malware.

Google searches and ranks millions of websites every day and automatically flags any website found to be hosting or distributing malware, which is malicious software designed to damage computers or networks. This can cause problems for webmasters by significantly reducing website visitor numbers.

Types

Types of malware include spyware, which can steal personal information for bank account "phishing" scams; adware that serves irritating pop-up advertising; and viruses and Trojans that damage computer files and systems.

Warning

Once Google has flagged a website for malware, visitors who try to access the site through Google's search engines instead get referred to a warning page, advising them about the risk of accessing the site.

Significance

According to Google, most of the websites it flags for malware have been hijacked and infected by hackers, without the webmaster's knowledge. Although Google warns webmasters via email and through its Webmaster Tools facility, some website owners become aware of the problem only when they notice a significant reduction in traffic from Google's search engine. For e-commerce and advertising-based sites, this reduction in traffic can cause financial problems.

Solution

To get Google's malware warning removed, webmasters must clean all malicious software code from the website and then request a review from Google. If it finds the site to be "clean," the malware warning will be removed. Google provides advice for webmasters to help them remove malware from websites and guard against hijack attempts by hackers.

References

• Google Webmaster Central: About Malware and Hacked Sites
• Unmask Parasites: Practical Guide to Dealing With Google's Malware Warnings
• SEO Round Table: Malware, A Growing Issue

Resources

• Stop Badware: Tips for Cleaning and Securing Your Website