Creating and managing your own WordPress site has never been easier. With free themes, plugins and more you can have your business website or blog up and running in no time. Yet, one problem with this increase in site volume is an increase in malware. Malware is any software that disrupts normal functioning of a site and/or steals data. What is worse, most users are not aware that their sites are exposed to these nasty programs. But the good news is this. There are a ton of WordPress plugins that combat malware! So, here are the best WordPress malware removal plugins you can get today.
First, how do I know if my site has malware?
Malware comes in all shapes and sizes. And new versions of malware come daily. So, how do you know if your websites’ infected? Here are 7 common signs that your site might have malware.
- Unable to login to WordPress
- Sudden drop in traffic
- Design of site altered or removed
- New user accounts in WordPress dashboard
- Spammy links added to your site
- Popups screen and ads
- Your site becomes unresponsive
If your site is experiencing any of the above symptoms, you might want to do a malware scan.
The good news is free and paid plugins offer protection against these programs. So, let us dive into the 12 best WordPress malware removal programs you can get today…
1) Wordfence Security – Firewall & Malware Scan
First on the list is one of the most popular WordPress security plugins on the market. Wordfence Security protects your site from malicious attacks, hackers, and bots. This plugin offers a firewall and malware scans designed to get rid of existing malware. It also provides security protection to keep new attacks from infecting your site.
Our WordPress Malware Removal Score – 9.5/10
Highlights:
- Free version should meet most site owner’s security needs
- Custom login URL option for advanced user login
- Weekly reporting option directly to your email
- reCAPTCHA to protect WordPress login, register and comment forms.
- All in one security plugin
Downsides:
This plugin is one of the best all-encompassing security plugins out there. The only knock on this plugin is the speed of its malware scan. It tends to run slow, because of how in depth it is. But other than that, this is our top for security features and user friendliness.
2) Cerber Security, Anti-spam & Malware Scan
Cerber security anti-spam and malware scan is one of the best for complete protection. Offering advanced protection against hackers, spam, malware and brute force attacks, this plugin does it all. Also includes a routine security report as an added benefit
WordPress Malware Removal Score – 9.2/10
Highlights:
- Email report setup and log file access.
- Offers malware background scans
- Includes dual malware/virus protection
- Create custom login URL
- Automatically detects spam comments
- Security scanner verifies WP core files.
Downsides:
This plugin is a great choice for experienced WordPress users that know how to navigate plugin settings. This plugin may be hard to use for the novice site owner.
3) iThemes Security (formerly Better WP Security)
Next up is the iThemes Security plugin. This plugin was formerly Better WP security, and the new and improved plugin is certainly worth a look. With 1+million active installations, iThemes provides over 30 ways to keep your site secure. These include malware scans, virus detection, anti-spam, and file checkers. This robust plugin is a great option for those that have some experience and want a lot of security features.
WordPress Malware Removal Score – 9/10
Highlights:
- Offers Google reCaptcha for anti-spam.
- Deep malware scans and scheduling.
- Password security.
- Two factor authentications offered.
Downsides:
This is a widely used WordPress malware removal plugin that offers a ton of advanced features.
One downside of this plugin is it is not quite as user friendly as some others on the list. If you have a little experience however, this is a great option to try!
4) Anti-Malware Security and Brute-Force Firewall
Next up is the Anti-Malware Security and Brute-Force Firewall plugin. As their name suggests, this plugin specializes in identifying and removing malware. Designed to identify new threats, this makes a great choice for ongoing security.
WordPress Malware Removal Score – 8.8/10
Highlights:
- Massive defense against malware.
- Complete scan removes known security threats and database injections.
- Checks the integrity of your WordPress core files.
- Automatically downloads definition updates to protect against new attacks.
Downsides:
This plugin specializes in malware. It may not be as comprehensive as your site needs if you are suffering from spam comments and pingbacks.
5) Titan Anti-Spam & Security
The next plugin that is known for identifying malware is Titan Anti-spam & Security. This plugin includes anti-spam, firewall, malware scanner and defense audits. This all in one security plugin is great for getting rid of existing malware. Their comprehensive firewall that stops brute force attacks and by restricting login attempts is a nice addition! What is more, Titan anti-spam and security has an easy to use interface. Perfect for those that need a quick solution.
WordPress Malware Removal Score – 8.4/10
Highlights:
- Impressive malware security scanner with over 1000 signatures for the basic plan.
- Titan user interface makes deleting suspect files easy.
- Checks your site’s existing vulnerabilities and provides defense recommendations.
- Comprehensive security plugin
Downsides:
Although this is a comprehensive plugin, many of the advanced features are only accessible with a PRO plan. May not be enough protection for more established sites.
6) Astra Security Suite- Firewall and Malware Scan
Next up on our list of the best WordPress malware removal plugins is the Astra Security Suite. The newest plugin to join the list, this has the potential to be one of the best security plugins out there. With advanced all in one suite that includes firewall anti-spam, brute force protection and malware scans. What is even better is this plugin being extremely easy to set up. A 5-minute quick installation is all you need. No DNS changes necessary. This is a fantastic option for those looking for an all in one solution that has a smaller active user base.
Our WordPress Malware Removal Score – 8.2/10
Highlights:
- All in one security platform for most needs.
- Guided setup
- One click scans for easy detection.
- Impressive spam detection for SEO and comments.
Downsides:
The only downside to this plugin is its relatively small user base and lack of in-depth user reviews. However, this is a solid choice for security plugins with advanced anti-spam features.
7) Defender Security – Malware Scanner, Login Security & Firewall
This impressive, all-encompassing security plugin should be given serious consideration. Defender security offers a malware scanner, IP blocking, audit logs and more. And this is standard for the free version of the plugin. Be sure to check out their platform of plugins to improve SEO and enhance your site!
WordPress Malware Removal Score – 8.2/10
Highlights:
- Login masking.
- Server and core update alerts (critical for security)
- Disable WordPress file editor to stop hackers in their tracks.
- Includes malware scan and security firewall.
Downsides:
This a great plugin for those that need all in one security solution. Yet, we did not find the interface to be the most user friendly. Also, some of the advanced features negatively impact search engine visibility. Use carefully!
8) Sucuri Security
Another immensely popular all in one security plugin is Sucuri. This plugin specializes in all thing’s malware removal, auditing. This is a good option for those in search of a tried and tested malware security plugin. Sucuri also specializes in transparency to their users. Easily monitor logs, core files, brute force attacks and more!
WordPress Malware Removal Score – 8/10
Highlights:
- Blacklist Monitoring
- Deep scan malware protection.
- Post hack actions
- Offers remote malware scanning.
Downsides:
This is a widely used WordPress malware removal plugin. However, this does not feature a full suite of protection. It does offer a firewall with its premium plan.
9) Ninja Scanner Virus and Malware Protection
This lightweight plugin offers some great security features. And it should not slow down your site! The malware scanner checks for existing vulnerabilities and identifies security gaps. What is more, this plugin includes virus detection as well. With this fast security plugin, you receive good protection without sacrificing speed.
WordPress Malware Removal Score – 8/10
Highlights:
- File integrity checker.
- Email report setup and log file access.
- Offers malware background scans
- Includes dual malware/virus protection
Downsides:
This plugin is designed to give solid security without slowing down your site. The scans may not provide an in-depth review of infected files. This plugin also does include anti-spam.
10) Malcare Security Plugin for WordPress Websites
The Malcare plugin has been around for some time, and with good reason. It is one of the most utilized plugins for security scans and malware detection. The best part is Malcare might be the easiest to use plugin on the list. Malcare offers a one click protection scan. This makes finding and removing harmful programs a breeze. It also has a deep cloud-based scanner offering optimal protection against advanced attacks.
WordPress Malware Removal Score – 7.8/10
Highlights:
- File integrity checker.
- Email report setup and log file access.
- Offers malware background scans
- Includes dual malware/virus protection
Downsides:
This plugin is designed to give solid security without slowing down your site. The scans may not provide an in-depth review of infected files. This plugin also does include anti-spam.
11) NinjaFirewall (WP Edition) – Advanced Security
This plugin operates slightly differently than the rest on this list. As a true standalone firewall, this provides additional security measures to your site. And it still operates much like any other plugin would. This gives you the added benefit of having security built in front of your WordPress site. This is opposed to cloud-based security plugins.
Our WordPress Malware Removal Score – 7.5/10
Highlights:
- Blazing fast brute force attack protection.
- Standalone firewall.
- Offers a live log of traffic.
- Simple to use interface.
Downsides:
This plugin offers great security with the added benefit of being a true standalone security plugin. However, its malware scanning might be lacking compared to other options on this list.
12) Quttera
Another solid malware scanning option is Quttera. This plugin features in depth malware scanning and trojan horse detection. One added benefit of this plugin is it also checks Google periodically to see if your site has been blacklisted! This is a common sign that indicates your site has been hacked.
Our WordPress Malware Removal Score – 7.5/10
Highlights:
- Offers a comprehensive security platform for most needs.
- Google blacklisted site integration.
- One click scans for easy detection.
- Simple to use interface.
Downsides:
This plugin has an impressive list of security features; however, these may conflict with other plugins. Some users have noted compatibility issues. Be sure to test this plugin in a staging environment before going live.
13) CleanTalk Security and Malware Scan
A lightweight and all in one security plugin that is relatively new to the scene. It may be worth a look as it includes a suite of features in their free plan. Clean Talk offers one click malware scans, web app firewall, security log and updates.
Our WordPress Malware Removal Score – 7.5/10
Highlights:
- All in one security platform for most needs.
- Daily malware log and reporting
- One click scans for easy detection.
- Lightweight so should not interfere with site speed
Downsides:
This plugin is still working out some user interface issues. However, this could be due to plugin incompatibility. Much like the Clean Talk plugin, make sure to test in a staging environment first.
Best WordPress Malware Removal Plugins Wrap up
Finding malware and knowing the damage it can cause can be daunting. But with these 13 plugin choices you will know your site is protected. Each one offers a slightly different set of security features and usability, so find the best one that fits your needs. If we had to choose one to start with, try the Wordfence Security plugin. With a superior defense suite and in-depth malware scans, this plugin usually does the trick for most users!
Need help keeping your WordPress website safe and secure? You may want to consider our WordPress maintenance service. We would be happy to help and partner with you!
