Google posted on their webmaster channel on Google+ that one of the primary reasons a website is hacked these days is because of SEO. Google wrote, “Search Engine Optimization ‘SEO’ spam is one of the primary reasons that vulnerable websites are targeted by hackers.”
I assume this is not just about redirecting unsuspecting users, but also link injection, content injection and many more ways to hack and boost your search rankings.
Google wrote:
Search Engine Optimization ‘SEO’ spam is one of the primary reasons that vulnerable websites are targeted by hackers. Some forms of SEO spam can redirect your users to malicious sites and cause you to lose customers.
An early warning sign of this can be from customers trying to access your site. Be sure to pay attention to user feedback, questions, or complaints. Also, sign up for Search Console. If Google detects any malicious redirects, we’ll send you a message in Search Console. #NoHacked
What is Spam?
Spam is the unwanted and irrelevant messages that are sent to a large number of users from one source generally with the intention of getting the users to do something. Many governments around the world have created policies and laws against spam, which has resulted in several individuals being imprisoned or heavily fined. However, spam is not just emails that say you have won a ton of money, but it also found in comments on other websites with a similar call to action. Let’s face reality. No one ever said they love to receive spam. While spam rarely entices the user into clicking the message, if the spammer is able to send enough emails, they can attract a few individuals into their trap.
Stop yourself being Hacked
You can use Google Search Console to set up email alerts concerning your site’s health. Enable email notifications in Search Console Preferences. It’s best to get alerts on all topics to catch any negative SEO attempts.
Get notifications of new links. Change the status of email notifications to daily to make sure you catch malicious links as soon as they appear.
Set up Google Alerts for your company, brands and/or products. We have previously suggested you do this to find new link building opportunities, but it’s also a great way to stay on top of fake negative reviews and fake profiles attacking you in forums and on social media.
