17 Sep 2023
We encounter hundreds of hacks each year, each one more cleverly devised than the other. For example, one day you may open your website’s homepage and find nothing but a blank page with the text: hacked by… This is called “defacement,” which simply means that your page has been redesigned and altered. Fortunately, only the homepage may be affected, and the rest of your pages may still be accessible.
Another type of hack is known as “the link builder.” Your website remains mostly the same, with a few details changed. You may find pieces of text with links to a shady website. The sole purpose of this hack is to build links so that Google ranks the hacker’s site higher in search results. However, your website’s visibility on Google will significantly decrease due to advertising these dubious products.
Then there’s “the shoplifter,” who targets your online store. They hack their way in and modify the payment options, leaving only one remaining. And as you might guess, that payment option redirects to their own PayPal or bank account, allowing them to receive money from your customers. Usually, the funds are transferred to the account of a so-called “money mule.”
“The script kiddie” refers to a young boy or girl who simply picks up some scripts from the internet and alters some text or the layout of your website. These youngsters are often referred to as script kiddies. However, it’s essential to mention that their actions are no less criminal and should not be taken as a joke. The website owner incurs damage due to the loss of customers and the expenses incurred when a webmaster or security agency needs to repair and secure the website.
Finally, there’s “the corrupt web agency,” which consists of companies in countries like Russia, Pakistan, etc., who struggle to earn enough to support their families. Out of desperation to make ends meet, they misuse their knowledge. Their team of programmers and server specialists develop sophisticated viruses that embed themselves in servers and websites. These hacks are of a high level, requiring more effort to get rid of them. They often target the funds of your online store or promote their own webshop through advertisements. They frequently redirect visitors to their own website or webshop as well. They exert direct and noticeable control over your website, using clever tricks and backdoors.
